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Everything You Need to Know About Flight Details

A flight booking packs a surprising amount of information into a few lines: a six-character code, a thirteen-digit number, a flight number that may belong to a different airline than the one you fly, times in two time zones, a fare brand, a baggage code, a seat, and a set of rules you probably never opened. Most of the time none of it matters. When something changes, though, knowing how to read those details is what separates a quick fix from hours on hold or a missed flight. This guide explains every part of a typical flight itinerary and boarding pass, what to check right after you book, how to handle schedule changes, and what happens on the day, from check-in to customs at the other end. It is written for anyone who wants to understand exactly what they have bought.

The short answer

Right after booking, check five things: the names match your passport or ID exactly, the dates and airports are the ones you meant (including arrival dates on overnight flights), which airline actually operates each flight, what your fare includes in bags, seats and changes, and that any connections are on one ticket with enough time. Save your booking reference and e-ticket number, add the flights to your calendar, and turn on notifications in the airline’s app so you hear about schedule changes first. On the day, the details that matter most are the check-in cutoff, the terminal and the time the boarding gate closes. You can compare flights by time, connection and airline on our flight search before you book.

A flight departure board at Geneva Airport listing destinations, times and gates — Flight numbers, times and gates: the details worth checking again on the day (Photo: Tiia Monto via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0)

Anatomy of a flight booking

Here is what the main items on a confirmation mean and why each one matters.

Detail	What it looks like	Why it matters
Booking reference	Six letters and numbers, also called a confirmation code, record locator or PNR	Used to manage the booking, check in and contact the airline
E-ticket number	Usually 13 digits; the first three identify the airline that issued the ticket	Proof that the ticket is paid for; needed for refunds and some changes
Passenger names	Surname and given names as entered at booking	Must match the passport or ID you travel with
Flight number	Two-character airline code plus a number, such as AC 123	Identifies the flight; codeshares have more than one number
Operated by	The airline that flies the aircraft	Determines where you check in, which terminal and often which bag rules
Airports	Three-letter codes such as YYZ, YVR, JFK, LHR, CDG	Many cities have more than one airport
Times	Local times at each airport; a “+1” means the next day	Arrival dates on overnight flights affect hotel bookings
Cabin and fare brand	Economy, premium economy, business; basic, standard, flexible and similar	Controls bags, seat selection, changes and refunds
Booking class	A single letter, sometimes shown next to the cabin	Affects miles earned and upgrade eligibility
Baggage allowance	Pieces (1PC, 2PC, 0PC) or weight (23 kg)	Shows whether a checked bag is included
Seat	Row number and letter, or “assigned at check-in”	Whether you are seated together and where

A ten-minute routine right after you book

The best time to catch a problem is the moment the confirmation arrives, when changes are cheapest or free. Work through this list before you close the email.

Open the confirmation and the e-ticket receipt. A booking without a ticket number may not be fully ticketed yet. If no ticket number appears within a day, contact whoever you booked with.
Read every name letter by letter against the passports.
Check every date and airport code. Look for “+1” arrivals and any change of airport at a connection.
Look up the booking on the airline’s website, and on the operating airline’s website for codeshare flights. Seeing the same reservation there confirms it is active.
Add your frequent flyer number so the flights earn miles and any status benefits apply.
Choose seats if your fare allows it, especially if you are traveling with children or want to sit together.
Note the baggage allowance for each traveler and decide whether to prepay for a bag.
Save the fare rules or a screenshot of the conditions shown when you bought the ticket.
Add the flights to your calendar and turn on notifications in the airline app.
Check entry requirements for every country on the trip, including connections.

If anything is wrong and you booked a flight to, from or within the United States at least seven days before departure, you usually have 24 hours to cancel without penalty. Other markets have different rules, so act quickly either way.

Names: the detail that causes the most trouble

Airlines check that the name on your ticket matches the name on your government ID, and on international flights, the name in your passport. Small differences can cause problems at check-in or at the border, and some airlines charge to correct a name after ticketing.

Use your full legal name as it appears on your passport, not a nickname.
Middle names are usually fine to include or leave out, but follow the airline’s instructions and be consistent.
Hyphenated and multiple surnames can be displayed differently by different systems; enter them exactly as on your passport.
Titles such as Mr or Ms are sometimes appended to the first name on tickets; that is normal.
Fix mistakes immediately. For flights to, from or within the U.S. booked at least seven days ahead, the Department of Transportation’s 24-hour rule lets you cancel without penalty within a day of booking, explained on the DOT Aviation Consumer Protection site. Otherwise, call the airline as soon as you notice an error.

Flight numbers and codeshares

A codeshare is a flight sold by one airline but operated by another. You might buy a ticket from one airline with its flight number, but the aircraft, crew and service belong to its partner. Your itinerary will say “operated by” followed by the partner’s name.

This matters in several practical ways:

Check-in and terminal: you usually check in with the operating airline, and at airports with several terminals, you go to the operating airline’s terminal.
Bags: baggage rules can follow the operating or marketing carrier depending on the itinerary. Check your booking, and ask if unsure.
Seats: seat selection may only be possible through the operating airline’s website, using its own booking reference, which can differ from the one you received.
Service: the cabin, food and entertainment are those of the operating airline.

If a codeshare is involved, look up the booking on the operating airline’s website as well, so you can see its version of your reservation and seat.

Airports, terminals and times

Airport codes

Every commercial airport has a three-letter code. Some cities also have a city code covering several airports, such as NYC for New York or LON for London, which search engines use to show all airports at once. When you book, check which airport each flight actually uses: arriving at London Gatwick when your hotel is near Heathrow, or at Newark instead of JFK, changes your ground transport. Our airport guides, such as JFK, London Heathrow and Toronto Pearson, explain terminals and transfers.

Terminals

Terminals are sometimes shown on the booking and sometimes only on the day. Check the airline app or the airport website the day before, especially at large airports where terminals are far apart.

Times and dates

All times on an itinerary are local to the airport. A flight from Toronto to London that leaves at 9 p.m. arrives the next morning, shown with a “+1”. Flights west across the Pacific can arrive two calendar days later, while some eastbound flights across the Pacific appear to arrive before they left. The flight duration shown is the real time in the air plus taxiing, which is the easiest way to sanity-check an itinerary. When you book the hotel, match the arrival date, not the departure date.

Passengers boarding a Boeing 737 at an airport gate — Boarding time is when the line starts, not when the door closes (Photo: Infrastorian via Wikimedia Commons, CC0)

Fare brands, cabins and booking classes

Most airlines now sell each cabin in several fare brands. The names differ, but they usually run from a basic fare with the fewest inclusions to a flexible fare with the most.

Typical fare brand	Often includes	Often excludes
Basic	A seat, and a personal item	Advance seat selection, changes, refunds; on some airlines a full-size carry-on or checked bag
Standard	Carry-on, free or low-cost seat selection, changes with a fare difference	Refunds; sometimes checked bags
Flexible	Changes without fees, often refunds, more miles	Premium cabin benefits
Premium cabins	More space, checked bags, priority services	Varies by airline and route

The single letter shown next to your cabin is the booking class, a code for the fare level within the cabin. You rarely need it, but it determines how many miles you earn and whether you can use certain upgrade options. Our guides to business class upgrade strategies and the difference between first and business class explain how cabins and upgrades work.

The fare rules

Every fare has rules, usually behind a link near the price. They cover changes, cancellations, refunds or credits, and what happens if you miss a flight. One rule surprises many travelers: on many airlines, if you do not show up for one flight on your itinerary, the remaining flights may be cancelled. If you need to skip a leg, contact the airline first.

Baggage allowance, decoded

Baggage allowances are usually shown in one of two ways. The piece concept lists a number of bags, such as 1PC or 2PC, each with a weight and size limit, and is common on flights to and from North America. The weight concept gives a total weight, such as 23 kg, across all your checked bags. “0PC” or “no free bags” means you will pay for any checked bag.

Carry-on: most airlines allow one carry-on and one personal item in economy, with size limits, and some fares allow only the personal item. Our carry-on size guide explains how to check your airline’s current limits.
Checked bags: fees are often per bag, per direction, and can be cheaper when paid in advance.
Multiple airlines: when more than one airline is on your ticket, the rules of one carrier generally apply to the whole journey; your booking should say which.
Separate tickets: each ticket has its own allowance, and bags are not transferred between separate tickets automatically.

Seats

Seat maps use row numbers and letters. On a typical single-aisle aircraft with three seats on each side, A and F are windows and C and D are aisles. Wide-body aircraft add more letters, and the pattern varies, so look at the seat map rather than guessing. Exit rows have extra legroom but come with age and ability requirements. Bulkhead rows often have bassinet positions for infants but may have fixed armrests.

If your fare does not include seat selection, seats are usually assigned at check-in. Families traveling with young children should check the airline’s seating policy for keeping children with an adult; many airlines have one, and the U.S. DOT tracks which airlines commit to family seating.

Connections and layovers

Connections are where itineraries break, so check them carefully.

Connection time: every airport has a minimum connection time, and tickets sold as one itinerary meet it. On international connections, especially where you must clear immigration or change terminals, more time is more comfortable.
Change of airport: some itineraries connect between two airports in the same city, such as arriving at one London airport and leaving from another. The booking will flag it; it requires a ground transfer and much more time.
Overnight connections: a long layover overnight may require a hotel and, in some countries, a visa to leave the airport.
Stops versus connections: a “direct” flight with one stop keeps the same flight number but lands on the way. A nonstop does not land.
One ticket versus several: on one ticket, the airline must rebook you if a delay causes a missed connection. On separate tickets, it does not.

Our international flights booking tips cover how to choose routings and how much connection time to allow.

Schedule changes and flight status

Airlines adjust schedules regularly, especially in the months before a flight. A change of a few minutes is routine. A change of hours, a new connection or a cancelled flight gives you options.

Watch for notifications. Keep your contact details in the booking and turn on app notifications.
Check the new itinerary. Is the connection still long enough? Does the new arrival still work for your hotel and plans?
Know your options. In the U.S., the DOT requires a refund when an airline cancels or significantly changes a flight and you choose not to travel. In Canada, the Air Passenger Protection Regulations set out airline obligations for schedule disruptions. In the EU, EU air passenger rights apply to many flights.
Ask for alternatives. If the new time does not work, airlines can often move you to another flight on the same day or nearby dates.

For flight status on the day, the airline’s app is the most accurate source. The U.S. DOT’s FlightRights.gov dashboard summarizes what major U.S. airlines commit to when flights are delayed or cancelled for reasons within their control.

Check-in

Online check-in typically opens 24 hours before departure on many airlines, sometimes earlier. It confirms you will travel, lets you choose or confirm a seat and issues a boarding pass. On international flights you may need to enter passport details, known as advance passenger information, and some passengers must still have documents verified at the airport before boarding.

Know the airline’s check-in and bag drop deadlines for your flight. For international departures they are often around an hour before departure and can be earlier. Our guide to how early to arrive for an international flight explains how to plan your airport timeline.

A mobile boarding pass with a 2D barcode on a phone screen — The barcode holds your booking reference, so keep boarding passes off social media (Photo: Mtcv via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0)

Your boarding pass, decoded

Field	Meaning
Name	Must match your ID
Flight and date	Flight number and the local departure date
Gate	May be blank or change; check airport screens
Boarding time	When boarding begins, not when the door closes
Group or zone	Your boarding order
Seat	Your assigned seat, or a note to see an agent
Sequence number	The order in which you checked in
Security indicators	On U.S. flights, “TSA PreCheck” if eligible; “SSSS” means selected for additional screening
Barcode or QR code	Contains your name and booking reference

Do not post a photo of your boarding pass online. The barcode contains your booking reference, which someone could use to access or change your reservation.

Security and boarding

Security screening rules are set by each country. In the U.S., the TSA’s What Can I Bring page lists what is allowed, and the liquids rule limits carry-on liquids to small containers in one bag. In Canada, CATSA publishes the equivalent guidance. Pack liquids and electronics where you can reach them, and dress for easy screening; our guide to what not to wear on a flight covers what slows people down.

Boarding usually begins 30 to 60 minutes before departure on larger aircraft, in groups or zones. Have your boarding pass and ID ready. On international flights, staff often check passports again at the gate. Gates close before departure, so do not wander too far once boarding is near.

The economy cabin of an Austrian Airlines long-haul aircraft — Seat letters vary by aircraft; check the seat map rather than guessing (Photo: Austrian Airlines via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 2.0)

On board

For comfort on longer flights, a few things help: wear layers, drink water, move around when it is safe, and keep essentials such as your passport, medications, chargers and a change of clothes in your carry-on, not in a checked bag. On long-haul flights, entertainment is usually provided, but downloading shows to your own device is a good backup. Our guides to airplane neck pillows and noise-cancelling headphones cover gear worth packing.

Arrival, immigration and customs

On an international arrival, follow signs to immigration, present your passport and any visa or authorization, collect your bags and then clear customs. Customs rules vary by country; entering Canada, the Canada Border Services Agency explains what to declare. If you are connecting, you may need to recheck bags and go through security again. Before you travel, check your destination’s entry rules through your government’s travel advice, such as Canada’s travel advice and advisories.

Special situations to flag on your booking

Some details are not part of the ticket itself but need to be added to the reservation, ideally at the time of booking.

Infants and children: a lap infant usually needs to be added to the booking and may need their own ticket on international flights. Request a bassinet early if the aircraft offers them.
Young travelers flying alone: airlines have their own age limits and procedures, and some charge for the service. Arrange it directly with the airline.
Accessibility and assistance: request wheelchair assistance or other support when you book, and confirm it before the flight. Mobility aids and medical devices have specific handling rules.
Special meals: dietary meals on full-service flights generally need to be requested in advance, often at least a day or two before departure.
Pets: pets in the cabin or hold must be booked with the airline, have limited spaces and require documents for international travel.
Sports equipment and musical instruments: check size limits and fees, and add them to the booking where the airline allows.

Keeping your flight details organized

Save the essentials in one place: booking reference, e-ticket number, airline contact details and your frequent flyer number.
Add every flight to your calendar in the local time of departure, and check that your calendar handles time zones correctly.
Take a screenshot of your boarding pass in case the app fails, and keep a paper copy for important trips.
Share your itinerary with someone at home.
Add your frequent flyer number to each booking, including codeshares.
Keep receipts for bags and seats in case of refunds or disputes.

Common mistakes

Name mismatches between the ticket and the passport.
Booking the wrong airport in a multi-airport city.
Missing the “+1” and booking the hotel for the wrong night.
Going to the wrong terminal on a codeshare flight.
Assuming a bag is included on a basic fare.
Skipping a flight and losing the rest of the itinerary.
Ignoring schedule change notices that break a connection.
Posting a boarding pass photo online.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a booking reference and a ticket number?

The booking reference is a six-character code that identifies your reservation. The ticket number, usually 13 digits, proves the ticket has been paid for. You typically use the booking reference to manage your trip and the ticket number for refunds and some changes.

What does “operated by” mean on my ticket?

It means the flight is a codeshare: another airline flies the aircraft. You usually check in with that airline and go to its terminal.

Why does my arrival say “+1”?

The flight lands the next calendar day, local time. Book your hotel for that date.

How do I know if my fare includes a checked bag?

Look for the baggage allowance on your booking, often shown as 1PC, 2PC, 0PC or a weight. If unsure, check the airline’s website with your booking reference.

What should I do if the airline changes my flight time?

Check whether the new schedule still works, including connections. If it does not, contact the airline about alternatives or a refund, depending on the rules that apply.

Can I skip one flight on my itinerary?

Be careful. Many airlines cancel the rest of your itinerary if you miss a flight without telling them. Contact the airline first.

What does SSSS on my boarding pass mean?

On U.S. flights, it means you have been selected for additional security screening. Allow extra time at security.

Ready to book with confidence? Compare flights by time, connection and operating airline on our flight search, and read our guide to the best time to book cheap flights and hotels to pick the right dates. Once your flight is set, find a room for the right night on our hotel search.

Keep planning with TicketScanner

November 12, 2023

Flying in Comfort: 8 Things You Should Never Wear on a Flight

What you wear on a plane decides how you feel for the next several hours, and sometimes for the first day of your trip. A cabin is a strange environment: you sit still for a long time in a narrow seat, the temperature swings from stuffy on the ground to chilly at altitude, the air is dry, and you have to pass through security, sprint to a connection and perhaps sleep upright before you arrive. The wrong outfit makes all of that harder. The right one is almost invisible: you stop thinking about your clothes and get on with the trip. This guide covers the things that are best left at home on flight day, why each one causes trouble, what to wear instead, and how to adjust for long-haul flights, short hops, business trips, hot and cold destinations and flying with children. It is part of our flight booking series, which starts with our guide to the best time to book cheap flights and hotels.

The short answer

Dress in soft, breathable layers that you can add or remove in your seat, and choose clothes that let you sit, bend and sleep without anything digging in. Wear closed, comfortable shoes that are easy to take off and put back on, not high heels, brand-new shoes or flip-flops. Keep metal, jewelry and complicated accessories to a minimum to get through security quickly. Skip strong perfume in a shared, sealed cabin. Carry a warm layer even on a hot-weather flight, because cabins get cold. And pack a spare top and essentials in your carry-on in case your checked bag goes missing or someone spills a drink. If you have not booked yet, compare fares across flexible dates on our flight search.

Rows of economy seats in the main cabin of a narrowbody airliner — Hours in a narrow seat: the reason comfort beats style on flight day (Photo: Delta News Hub via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 2.0)

What makes flight clothing different

A few features of air travel explain nearly every piece of advice below.

You sit still for a long time. Clothes that feel fine for an hour at a desk can pinch at the waist, knees or ankles after several hours in a seat with limited room to move.
The temperature changes. A cabin can be warm during boarding on a hot day and cool at cruising altitude, especially at night and near the windows.
The air is dry. Many travelers notice dry skin, eyes and lips on long flights, which affects fabric and contact lens choices.
Security screening is part of the journey. At checkpoints you may be asked to put outerwear, metal items and certain belongings in bins. The Canadian Air Transport Security Authority lists what goes in the bins, including jackets, coats and bulky sweaters worn over your clothes, plus loose change, keys and small metal items.
Space is tight. You will reach into overhead bins, squeeze past neighbors and use a very small lavatory.
Safety matters. In the rare event of an evacuation, you need to move quickly in whatever you are wearing. The Federal Aviation Administration’s passenger safety advice specifically tells passengers to remove high-heeled shoes before using an evacuation slide.

Ten things to avoid wearing on a flight

The table gives the quick version. The sections after it explain each one and suggest better choices.

Avoid	Why it causes trouble	Wear instead
High heels	Hard to walk long terminals in; must come off for an evacuation slide	Supportive sneakers, flats or loafers
Tight or restrictive clothing	Pinches at the waist and knees after hours of sitting	Stretch fabrics and relaxed cuts
Heavy or lots of jewelry	Slows security; snags and gets lost	One or two simple pieces; pack the rest
Strong perfume or cologne	Trapped in a sealed cabin; can bother neighbors	Unscented or very light products
Complicated outfits	Awkward in a tiny lavatory and at security	Simple separates you can manage in seconds
Very revealing or beachwear	Cold at altitude; may breach airline rules	Light layers you can remove after landing
Noisy fabrics	Rustle every time you move, especially at night	Quiet cotton, jersey and soft knits
Stiff or scratchy fabrics	Irritate skin over a long flight	Soft, breathable natural or technical fabrics
Flip-flops or brand-new shoes	Poor protection and support; blisters	Closed, broken-in shoes
A heavy coat you cannot stow	Takes up bin space and must go through screening	A packable jacket or warm layer

1. High heels

Heels look sharp but work badly at every stage of a flight. Airports involve long walks, moving walkways, stairs and occasional sprints for connections. Your feet may also feel tighter after hours of sitting, which makes structured shoes less comfortable by the end of the flight. And in an emergency, the FAA’s safety guidance tells passengers to remove high-heeled shoes before going down a slide, which costs precious seconds. Choose supportive sneakers, flats or loafers, and pack heels for your destination if you need them. If you spend a lot of time on your feet when you travel, our guide to comfortable walking shoes for traveling goes into more detail.

2. Tight or restrictive clothing

Skinny jeans, tight waistbands, shapewear and fitted dresses can feel fine when you are standing and become miserable after hours in an economy seat. Anything that digs in at the waist, behind the knees or around the ankles gets worse the longer you sit. Choose stretch fabrics, relaxed or tapered trousers, joggers that look neat, knit dresses with room to move or leggings with a long top. Travel trousers with stretch and useful pockets are a good compromise between comfort and a put-together look; our guide to travel pants for men covers what to look for.

3. Heavy or a lot of jewelry

Large metal jewelry can slow you down at security and may need to go through screening separately. Rings and bracelets snag on seat belts and blankets, necklaces tangle when you sleep, and small pieces are easy to lose in a seat pocket or security bin. Wear one or two simple pieces, and pack anything valuable or sentimental in a small case inside your carry-on rather than in checked baggage. Our pick of travel jewelry cases can help keep it organized.

4. Strong perfume or cologne

Cabin air circulates, but you are still sitting inches from your neighbors for hours. A scent that is pleasant at a party can be overwhelming in a row of three, and some people are sensitive to fragrance. Skip perfume on flight day, or use a very light, unscented moisturizer and deodorant. You can freshen up after landing. If you pack fragrance or toiletries in your carry-on, remember the liquid limits covered in our carry-on guide.

5. Complicated outfits

Jumpsuits, outfits with many buttons, lace-up boots, multiple belts and accessories all look good and all become a problem in a lavatory the size of a closet, at a security checkpoint or during a quick connection. Choose separates you can manage in seconds, shoes you can slip on and off, and a belt with minimal metal, or none at all.

6. Very revealing clothing or beachwear

This is less about modesty than practicality. Short shorts, tank tops and swimwear leave you cold once the cabin cools down, expose skin to seats and armrests, and offer no protection against spilled hot drinks. Airlines also include rules on passenger conduct and attire in their conditions of carriage, and crews can ask passengers to change or cover up if something is considered inappropriate or offensive; the same applies to clothing with offensive slogans or images. Wear light layers you can shed after landing and change into beach clothes at your destination.

7. Noisy fabrics

Some synthetic shells and stiff technical fabrics rustle every time you move. That is irritating in a quiet cabin at night, both for you and for your neighbors trying to sleep. Save your crinkly rain jacket for the destination, or keep it in the overhead bin, and wear quieter fabrics such as cotton, jersey, fleece and soft knits in your seat.

8. Stiff or scratchy fabrics

Rough wool, stiff denim, heavily starched shirts and scratchy seams become more irritating over a long flight, especially in dry cabin air. Soft cotton, merino, modal, bamboo blends and brushed technical fabrics are all comfortable against the skin. If a garment bothers you after an hour at home, it will bother you more at 35,000 feet.

9. Flip-flops and brand-new shoes

Flip-flops and loose sandals offer little support for long walks, little protection if something heavy falls from a bin or a bag rolls over your foot, and poor grip if you ever need to move quickly. Brand-new shoes carry a different risk: blisters, discovered halfway through a connection. Wear closed shoes you have already broken in, with socks. Socks also keep your feet warm and clean when you slip your shoes off in the cabin or at security.

10. A heavy coat you cannot stow

A bulky winter coat has to go through screening, takes up precious overhead bin space and is too hot to wear on board. If you are flying to or from somewhere cold, choose a packable insulated jacket or a fleece and a shell that you can compress into your bag. Many airlines allow a coat in addition to your carry-on allowance, but it still has to fit somewhere. Delta’s carry-on page, for example, lists a jacket among the items you can bring in addition to your carry-on and personal item.

A security officer at an airport screening checkpoint — Less metal and easy-off layers mean a faster trip through security (Photo: Michael Ball via Wikimedia Commons, CC0)

What to wear instead: the comfortable flight outfit

A good flight outfit works on three levels: a comfortable base, a warm middle layer and practical shoes and accessories.

Base layer

Start with a soft, breathable top in cotton, merino or a quality technical fabric, and comfortable trousers with stretch: joggers, travel trousers, soft chinos, leggings or a relaxed knit dress with leggings underneath. Dark colors hide spills and wrinkles, which matters on long trips when you head straight from the airport to a meeting or dinner.

Warm layer

Add a cardigan, zip fleece, light sweater or hoodie that you can take off in seconds. Cabins can be warm while you board and cool once you are in the air, and a layer you control beats relying on a thin airline blanket. A large scarf or wrap doubles as a blanket, a pillow or a sunshade for your eyes.

Shoes and socks

Wear supportive, closed shoes that slip on and off easily, such as sneakers or loafers, with comfortable socks. Screening rules for footwear vary between countries and checkpoints, so easy-off shoes save time wherever you fly. Some travelers bring a spare pair of warm socks to change into on long flights.

Accessories

A small personal item with your essentials that fits under the seat in front of you.
A neck pillow and eye mask for sleep. Our guide to airplane pillows compares styles.
Headphones, ideally noise-cancelling, to cut engine noise. See our pick of noise-cancelling headphones for flying.
Glasses rather than contact lenses if dry air bothers your eyes on long flights.
A refillable water bottle, emptied before security and filled afterward, to stay hydrated.

Staying comfortable on long flights

Clothing is only part of a comfortable long flight. Moving regularly matters too.

Get up and walk the aisle when the seat belt sign is off, stretch your legs and flex your ankles in your seat, and drink water. Keep your seat belt loosely fastened while seated, though: the FAA’s turbulence guidance recommends keeping it buckled at all times, because turbulence can happen without warning, even in clear skies.

Some travelers wear compression socks on long flights. If you have a history of blood clots, a recent surgery, pregnancy, a medical condition or any other risk factor, talk to your doctor before a long flight about what is right for you, rather than relying on general advice. The Government of Canada’s travel health and safety pages are a good starting point for health planning before any trip. Our guide to compression socks for long flights explains the options if your doctor recommends them.

For sleep, dress as though you are going to bed on a slightly cold night: soft layers, warm socks and something to cover your eyes. Our guide to sleeping better on flights covers routines, seat choice and light.

A traveler in comfortable clothes standing with a suitcase — Soft layers and broken-in shoes: the outfit you stop thinking about (Photo: Russell Lee via Wikimedia Commons, Public domain)

Dressing for your trip: situational advice

Long-haul and overnight flights

Prioritize sleep and temperature control. Soft trousers, a breathable top, a warm layer, warm socks and slip-on shoes are ideal. If you want to look fresh on arrival, pack a clean top, a toothbrush and deodorant in your carry-on and change before landing. Premium cabins on some airlines hand out pajamas; if you are hoping for a flat bed, our guide to the difference between first class and business class explains what each cabin includes.

Short domestic flights

Comfort still matters, but you can dress closer to your normal clothes. The priorities are easy security, comfortable shoes for the terminal and a layer for the cabin.

Business trips

If you are going straight to a meeting, wear comfortable, wrinkle-resistant clothing on the plane and carry your jacket, or change at the airport or your hotel. Dark, stretchy tailoring, knit blazers and travel trousers look professional without the discomfort of a full suit in an economy seat. Keep your meeting outfit in your carry-on, never in checked baggage.

Flying from cold to hot

Wear layers that end in something suitable for the destination: a T-shirt under a sweater under a packable jacket. Stow the heavy layers once you are through security. Leave the parka in the car or at home if someone is driving you to the airport.

Flying from hot to cold

Pack your warm jacket, hat and gloves in your carry-on, not your checked bag, so you are not stuck at a chilly arrivals curb or car rental lot waiting for your luggage. Change into warm socks and closed shoes before landing.

Flying with children

Dress children in soft, comfortable layers that are easy to change, and pack at least one complete spare outfit per child in your carry-on, plus a spare top for yourself. Avoid outfits with many fastenings that make lavatory visits slow. Slip-on shoes help at security for everyone.

Red-eye flights

Treat it as bedtime: comfortable clothes, warm socks, an eye mask and earplugs or headphones. Pack a clean top and toiletries so you can freshen up before a morning arrival.

Getting through security smoothly

Many flight clothing choices come down to security. A few habits save time and stress:

Put metal items in your bag before the line. Keys, coins, a watch and a phone can go into a jacket pocket or your carry-on while you wait.
Wear outerwear you can remove quickly. CATSA asks passengers to place jackets, coats and bulky sweaters worn over their clothes in a bin.
Keep your liquids bag accessible. At some checkpoints with newer scanners you may not need to take it out, but have it ready. CATSA explains when CT-equipped lines let items stay in your bag.
Choose a belt with little or no metal. Or skip the belt on travel day.
Check the rules for where you are flying from. Screening procedures differ by country and change over time. Check CATSA for flights from Canada and the TSA for flights from the United States before you fly.

Security lines are only one part of airport timing. Our guide to how early to arrive for an international flight helps you plan the whole journey to the gate.

What to pack in your carry-on, just in case

Even the perfect outfit cannot stop a spilled coffee or a delayed bag. A small backup kit in your carry-on protects the first day of your trip:

A clean top and underwear, and a full change of clothes for children.
Any medication you need, in its original packaging.
Toothbrush, toothpaste and deodorant, within liquid limits.
A warm layer and socks.
Chargers and any spare batteries, which generally have to travel in the cabin; the FAA’s PackSafe pages explain the rules for U.S. flights.
Your meeting outfit or anything you cannot replace quickly at the destination.

Fitting all of this into your allowance takes a little planning. Our guide to carry-on luggage sizes explains dimensions and packing strategies, and our travel luggage guide helps you choose the right bag.

Common flight clothing mistakes

Dressing for the destination, not the journey. Beach clothes are cold on a plane; a winter coat is hot in a terminal.
Trying new clothes or shoes on flight day. Discover the scratchy seam or the blister at home, not on board.
Putting your warm layer in checked baggage. Keep it with you.
Forgetting the lavatory test. If an outfit takes a minute to manage at home, it will take three in a turbulent lavatory.
Wearing heavy metal accessories. They slow security and are easily lost in bins.
Packing no spare clothes. One spill or one lost bag can ruin the first day.
Ignoring health advice. If you have risk factors for circulation problems, speak to a doctor before a long flight.

Frequently asked questions

What is the most comfortable thing to wear on a plane?

Soft, breathable layers: a comfortable top, stretch trousers or leggings, a warm layer you can remove easily, comfortable socks and closed, slip-on shoes you have already broken in.

Can I wear leggings or sweatpants on a flight?

Yes. They are comfortable and widely worn. Neat joggers or leggings with a longer top look put-together, and they are far more comfortable than tight jeans on a long flight.

Is it okay to wear shorts on a plane?

You can, but cabins often get cold, especially on long or overnight flights. If you wear shorts, bring a warm layer and consider long trousers in your carry-on.

Why shouldn’t you wear high heels on a plane?

They are uncomfortable for long walks through airports, and the FAA’s passenger safety guidance tells passengers to remove high-heeled shoes before using an evacuation slide. Wear flats or sneakers and pack heels.

Should I wear jeans on a flight?

Stretch jeans with a relaxed fit can be fine on a short flight. Stiff or tight jeans become uncomfortable on long flights, when softer trousers are usually the better choice.

Can airlines refuse to let you fly because of your clothes?

Airlines set conduct and attire rules in their conditions of carriage, and crews can ask passengers to change or cover up if clothing is considered offensive or inappropriate. Dressing practically and neutrally avoids any issue.

What should I avoid wearing through airport security?

Lots of metal jewelry, heavy belts, bulky outerwear and shoes that are hard to remove all slow screening. Put metal items in your bag before the line and wear layers you can take off quickly.

Should I wear compression socks on a long flight?

Some travelers find them comfortable, but whether they are right for you is a question for your doctor, especially if you have risk factors for blood clots or other health conditions.

Outfit sorted? Find the best fare for your dates on our flight search, then compare places to stay at your destination with our hotel search. If you are heading somewhere cold this winter, our guide to the best time to fly to Montreal explains what to expect when you land.

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November 5, 2023

Cheap Flight Deals to Toronto: Your Gateway to the Marvels of Canada’s Cultural Hub

Toronto, the capital of Ontario and Canada’s largest city, is one of the most rewarding city breaks in North America. It has a skyline anchored by the CN Tower, a string of car-free islands a short ferry ride from downtown, major museums and galleries, big-league sports, a film festival that draws stars every September and neighborhoods where you can eat your way around the world in a weekend. It is also one of the best-connected cities on the continent. Toronto Pearson is Canada’s busiest airport, and the downtown island airport, Billy Bishop, puts some flights a short walk from the Financial District. That volume of flights is what makes good fares possible, but only if you know how the city’s seasons, events and airports affect the price. This guide explains when to go, when to book, which airport to use, how fares from within Canada, from the United States and from overseas differ, how to get downtown, and how to keep the whole trip affordable. It is part of our flight booking series, which starts with our guide to the best time to book cheap flights and hotels.

The short answer

Winter and the quieter shoulder weeks are cheapest, while summer, the September film festival and major holiday weekends are the most expensive. Book about one to three months ahead for domestic and U.S. trips and two to six months ahead from overseas, earlier for peak dates. Compare both Toronto airports: Pearson has by far the most flights, while Billy Bishop is right next to downtown. Search a whole month, because shifting by a day often changes the fare. Compare the total price with bags and seats included. And if you are not Canadian, check your entry requirements, including whether you need an eTA, before you book. Compare fares across the month on our Toronto flights page.

The Toronto skyline and CN Tower seen across the water from the Toronto Islands — Toronto has two airports close to the city, and Billy Bishop is right by downtown (Photo: Jchmrt via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0)

Why Toronto is worth the trip

Toronto works for almost any kind of traveler, which is part of why so many flights go there.

Landmarks and views: the CN Tower, the waterfront and the view of the skyline from the Toronto Islands.
Museums and culture: the Royal Ontario Museum, the Art Gallery of Ontario, a large theater district and a busy live music scene.
Neighborhoods and food: Kensington Market, Chinatown, Little Italy, the Distillery District and the St. Lawrence Market, with food from nearly every culture in one of the most diverse cities in the world.
Sports: the Maple Leafs and Raptors in winter, the Blue Jays in summer, and soccer and football too.
Easy day trips: Niagara Falls and the Niagara wine region are a manageable drive or tour away.

Our guide to things to do in Toronto covers the highlights in detail, and the official tourism site, Destination Toronto, lists events and attractions.

When to visit, and what it does to the price

Toronto has four real seasons, and flight and hotel prices follow them closely.

Period	Weather	Crowds and prices
January to March	Cold, with snow; a real Canadian winter	Usually the cheapest months for flights and hotels, outside holiday weekends and school breaks in March
April and May	Cool to mild spring; parks turn green	Good value; the Victoria Day long weekend in May is busier
June to August	Warm to hot and humid; long evenings	Peak season, with Pride in June, big summer festivals, the Caribbean Carnival and the Canadian National Exhibition in late summer
September and October	Warm early, crisp later; fall color	The Toronto International Film Festival in September and conference season push hotel rates up; October is often excellent value
November and December	Cold, first snow possible	Quiet in November; holiday markets and Christmas travel make late December busy

For the best mix of weather and price, look at May, early June, late September and October outside the film festival and Thanksgiving weekend. For the lowest prices, a winter weekend can be remarkably cheap if you do not mind the cold, and much of Toronto’s appeal, from museums to theater to restaurants, is indoors. Our month-by-month guide to the best time to fly to Toronto goes deeper.

Events that move prices

Big events fill hotels and flights on specific dates. Before you fix your trip, check what is on during your dates on our Toronto events page. A major concert run, a playoff series or a festival weekend can make hotels expensive even when flights look reasonable. If you are coming for the event, book as early as you can; if not, consider a different weekend.

Which airport: Pearson, Billy Bishop or somewhere else?

Airport	What it offers	Choose it when
Toronto Pearson (YYZ)	Canada’s busiest airport; flights from across Canada, the U.S. and around the world; two terminals	You want the widest choice of flights and fares, or you are flying from overseas
Billy Bishop Toronto City (YTZ)	A small island airport next to downtown with flights to cities in Canada and the U.S.	You are staying downtown and there is a flight from your city
Hamilton (YHM)	A smaller airport southwest of Toronto, sometimes served by low-cost airlines	The fare saving outweighs a longer transfer, especially if you are going to Hamilton or Niagara
Buffalo Niagara (BUF)	A U.S. airport across the border from the Niagara region	You are a U.S. traveler willing to drive and cross the border, and the saving is large

For most visitors, the choice is between Pearson and Billy Bishop. Toronto Pearson is in Mississauga, northwest of downtown, with Terminal 1 and Terminal 3; check which one your airline uses before you travel, and see our Toronto Pearson airport guide. Billy Bishop sits on the Toronto Islands, connected to the mainland by a pedestrian tunnel and a short ferry, with a shuttle to Union Station. A slightly higher fare into Billy Bishop can easily be the cheaper trip once you count the transfer from Pearson, if you are staying downtown.

Using a distant airport only makes sense when the numbers really work. Add the cost of the transfer, parking or a rental car, the time involved and, for Buffalo, the border crossing, before you decide.

Border inspection kiosks in the Terminal 3 arrivals hall at Toronto Pearson — Pearson has the widest choice of flights, and international arrivals clear the border here (Photo: Silver Dovelet via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0)

Flying from within Canada

Toronto is the biggest domestic hub in the country, with frequent flights from every major Canadian city. Air Canada, WestJet and Porter all fly to Toronto, and low-cost airlines serve some routes. A few things are worth knowing:

Busy business corridors. Routes such as Montreal, Ottawa, Calgary and Vancouver to Toronto carry many business travelers, so weekday peak flights are pricier. Midday, Saturday and midweek flights are often cheaper.
Compare airports on both ends. From Montreal or Ottawa, both Pearson and Billy Bishop are often options; from Vancouver or Calgary, you will almost always land at Pearson.
Check the train and the car for short trips. From Montreal and Ottawa, the train or a drive can compete with flying door to door. Our Toronto to Montreal and Toronto to Ottawa road trip pages cover those routes.
Know your protections. Canada’s Air Passenger Protection Regulations set out what airlines owe you for delays, cancellations and denied boarding.

Canadian air fares are advertised with all mandatory taxes and fees included, but optional extras such as checked bags and seat selection are not, so compare totals with the extras you need. Our guide to carry-on size rules compares Canadian and U.S. airline limits.

Flying from the United States

Transborder flights to Toronto arrive from dozens of U.S. cities, with the heaviest traffic from the Northeast, Chicago, Florida and major hubs. The route from New York is one of the busiest in North America; our guide to cheap flights from New York to Toronto covers it in detail, including all six airport combinations.

Documents: the Government of Canada says U.S. citizens do not need an eTA but must carry proper identification such as a valid U.S. passport. U.S. lawful permanent residents are also eTA-exempt but need a valid passport and a valid green card. Check the official eTA page before you travel.
On arrival: you clear Canadian border formalities in Toronto. The Canada Border Services Agency explains what to bring and declare on its travel documents page.
On the way home: Toronto Pearson has U.S. preclearance, and Billy Bishop now offers it too, so you clear U.S. border formalities before departure. Arrive earlier than you would for a domestic flight.
Currency: fares may be shown in U.S. or Canadian dollars depending on where you book; compare in the same currency.

Flying from overseas

Toronto Pearson has nonstop flights from Europe, Asia, Latin America, the Caribbean and beyond, and many one-stop options through other hubs. For long-haul trips:

Book earlier. Two to six months ahead is a sensible window, and earlier still for summer and Christmas.
Compare nonstop and one-stop. A connection through a European or U.S. hub can be cheaper, but check transit rules; connecting through the United States means going through U.S. border formalities even in transit.
Check entry requirements. Most visa-exempt travelers need an eTA to fly to Canada, and some nationalities need a visitor visa. Apply well before you book nonrefundable travel.
Consider an open-jaw trip. Flying into Toronto and home from Montreal or Vancouver can be a smart way to see more of Canada.

Our international flights booking tips cover routings, layovers and hidden costs in more depth, and our guide on how early to arrive for an international flight explains check-in deadlines.

When to book

Trip	Sensible booking window
Domestic Canada, ordinary dates	About 1 to 3 months ahead
From the U.S., ordinary dates	About 1 to 3 months ahead
Summer, long weekends, the film festival, holidays	About 2 to 4 months ahead, or as soon as plans are firm
From overseas	About 2 to 6 months ahead
Last minute	Sometimes fine on busy domestic routes midweek; rarely cheap on peak dates

The method is the same everywhere: start searching early to learn what a normal fare looks like, set a price alert, and book when the fare meets that level. Our fare calendar on the flight search shows prices across the whole month so you can see the cheap days at a glance. Waiting for a last-minute deal on a popular date usually costs more, not less.

A ferry crossing Toronto harbor to the Toronto Islands — A ferry ticket buys the best skyline view in the city (Photo: Jason Zhang via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0)

Getting from the airport to downtown

UP Express from Pearson: the UP Express train runs between Pearson and Union Station downtown. The operator describes the trip as 28 minutes, with trains every 15 minutes. It is the fastest and most predictable way downtown.
TTC from Pearson: public buses connect Pearson with the subway. It is the cheapest option and slower, but useful if you are staying outside downtown. Routes and fares are on the TTC website.
Taxis and ride-hailing from Pearson: convenient with luggage or a group, but traffic on the highways into the city can be heavy at rush hour.
From Billy Bishop: walk through the pedestrian tunnel or take the short ferry to the mainland, then walk, take a streetcar, use the airport shuttle to Union Station or grab a taxi.

Do you need a car? For a downtown trip, usually not: transit, walking and taxis cover most of what visitors want, and hotel parking is expensive. For day trips to Niagara or cottage country, a car helps. Our guide to renting a car or using transit in Toronto weighs it up, and you can compare prices on Toronto car rentals.

Stopovers and connections in Toronto

Many travelers pass through Toronto Pearson on the way somewhere else: between Europe and the Americas, between the Caribbean and Western Canada, or between smaller Canadian cities. If your itinerary includes a long connection, it can be worth turning it into a short stopover. The UP Express makes downtown easy to reach, so even a single night lets you see the waterfront, eat well and see the skyline from the CN Tower or the islands.

Check whether a stopover changes the fare. Sometimes adding a night or two in Toronto costs little or nothing extra; sometimes it prices the trip as two separate journeys. Search it both ways.
Know the entry rules. Leaving the airport means entering Canada, so you need the right documents, such as an eTA or visa where required. Some travelers in transit also need an eTA or transit visa even if they stay airside, so check the official rules for your passport.
Allow enough time on a tight connection. Pearson is large, and connections between international, transborder and domestic flights can involve border formalities and security. The airport’s connections page explains the process.
Stay near the airport for very early departures. Airport hotels make sense before a dawn flight; for anything longer, downtown is the better base.

Traveling to Toronto with kids

Toronto is an easy family city, with the aquarium at the foot of the CN Tower, the Royal Ontario Museum’s dinosaur galleries, the islands’ beaches and a children’s amusement area, and a zoo on the east side of the city. For families, timing matters even more than usual: flights and hotels are most expensive during summer holidays, March break and the Christmas period. If your children are young enough to travel outside school holidays, the savings can be substantial. Book family rooms early, because they sell first, and check seat selection rules on your fare so you can sit together. Our guide to the best time to book hotels for family vacations has more on timing.

Where to stay

Area	Why stay there
Entertainment District	Close to the CN Tower, theaters, Union Station and the waterfront; easy from both airports
Financial District and waterfront	Central, close to the island ferry and Billy Bishop; busy on weekdays, quieter at weekends
Yorkville and the Annex	Upscale shopping, the Royal Ontario Museum, leafy streets
Old Town and the Distillery District	Historic streets, the St. Lawrence Market, restaurants
Near Pearson	Convenient for early flights and short stopovers, far from downtown sights

Downtown business hotels are often cheaper on Friday and Saturday nights, when the weekday corporate guests have gone home, which makes Toronto a good weekend destination. Compare prices on our Entertainment District hotels page or all Toronto hotels, and book a refundable rate so you can rebook if the price drops. Our guide to booking hotels in Canada has more tips.

A simple plan for a first long weekend

If you are flying in for three or four days, a loose plan helps you choose the right hotel and the right flight times. Arrive early on the first day if you can, so you have an afternoon for the waterfront and the CN Tower area. Spend a day on culture, with the Royal Ontario Museum or the Art Gallery of Ontario in the morning and Kensington Market and Chinatown for lunch and a wander. Give another day to the Toronto Islands in warm weather, or to the Distillery District and the St. Lawrence Market in the colder months, and finish with a game, a show or dinner in one of the city’s many neighborhoods. Save Niagara Falls for a longer trip, or for a day when you have a car or a tour booked. Booking a late-afternoon or evening flight home gives you one more morning in the city, but on the way to the United States, leave time for preclearance.

Keeping the whole trip affordable

Use transit. The TTC covers downtown and beyond; a day of subway and streetcars costs far less than taxis.
Take the ferry to the islands. The islands offer beaches, bike paths and the best skyline view in the city for the price of a ferry ticket.
Eat in the markets and neighborhoods. The St. Lawrence Market, Kensington Market and the city’s many neighborhood restaurants are good value.
Check free and discounted museum times. Some museums and galleries offer free or reduced admission at set times; check their websites.
Stay over a weekend. Downtown hotels are often cheaper on Friday and Saturday nights.
Travel light. A carry-on-only trip avoids checked bag fees on the cheapest fares.

Common mistakes to avoid

Booking during the film festival or a festival weekend by accident. Check the events calendar first.
Ignoring Billy Bishop. For a downtown stay, it can save time and taxi fares.
Choosing a distant airport without doing the math. Hamilton and Buffalo only make sense with a large saving.
Forgetting the eTA. Most visa-exempt travelers who are not U.S. citizens need one to fly to Canada.
Underestimating the return. U.S.-bound travelers clear preclearance before departure; arrive early.
Renting a car for a downtown trip. Parking and traffic make it poor value.
Comparing base fares instead of totals. Add bags and seats before choosing.

Brick streets and Victorian industrial buildings in Toronto's Distillery District — Neighborhoods like the Distillery District make Toronto an easy weekend trip (Photo: Alonso Inostrosa Psijas from Santiago, Chile via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 2.0)

Frequently asked questions

What is the cheapest month to fly to Toronto?

Winter months such as January and February are usually the cheapest, outside holiday weekends and school breaks. Late spring and October are good value with better weather.

Which Toronto airport is cheaper to fly into?

Pearson usually has the most flights and the widest range of fares, but Billy Bishop can be the cheaper trip overall if you are staying downtown, because the transfer is so short.

How far in advance should I book a flight to Toronto?

About one to three months ahead from within Canada or the U.S., and two to six months ahead from overseas. Book earlier for summer, holidays and the film festival.

Do I need an eTA to fly to Toronto?

U.S. citizens do not need an eTA, but they must carry proper identification such as a valid passport. Most other visa-exempt travelers do need an eTA, and some nationalities need a visa. Check the Government of Canada’s eTA page before you book.

How do I get from Pearson to downtown Toronto?

The UP Express train runs to Union Station in about 28 minutes, according to the operator, with trains every 15 minutes. TTC buses, taxis and ride-hailing are alternatives.

Is Toronto expensive to visit?

Hotels in peak season and during big events can be pricey, but winter and shoulder-season trips, weekend hotel rates, good transit and affordable neighborhood food make a budget trip very achievable.

Are last-minute flights to Toronto ever cheap?

Occasionally on busy domestic routes midweek, when airlines have seats to fill. On peak dates and weekends, prices usually rise as departure approaches.

Can I combine Toronto with other Canadian cities?

Yes. Montreal and Ottawa are close enough for a train or drive, and flights connect Toronto with every major Canadian city. See our guides to flying to Montreal and things to do in Ottawa.

Ready to plan your Toronto trip? Search a whole month of fares on our Toronto flights page to find the cheapest days, check what is on with our Toronto events listings, and compare rooms for the same dates on our Toronto hotels page. For more on timing, read our guide to the best time to book cheap flights and hotels.

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November 1, 2023

Should You Rent a Car, Use Public Transport, or Take a Taxi to Explore a New Place?

How you get around once you land shapes a trip more than most people expect. It decides how much of your day goes to logistics, what you can realistically see, where it makes sense to stay, and a surprisingly large share of the budget. The choice is usually framed as three options, rent a car, use public transport or take taxis and ride-hail, but the best answer for most trips is a mix, chosen deliberately rather than by default. This guide explains how to make that call for any destination: the factors that actually decide it, what each option really costs and demands, how to learn an unfamiliar transit system quickly, how to use taxis and ride-hail without overpaying, and a table that matches the right approach to the kind of trip you are taking.

The short answer

Rent a car when the places you want to see are spread out, when transit is thin, when you are traveling as a family or group with luggage, or when the trip is about national parks, coastlines, small towns or a road trip. Use public transport when you are staying in a dense city with a real rail or metro network, when parking is scarce and expensive, and when most of your plans are within the city. Use taxis and ride-hail for the gaps: airport runs with bags, late nights, short hops where transit is awkward, and days when time matters more than money. And for many trips, the winning combination is transit and walking for the city days, a rental for the day trips, and an occasional taxi when it is late or raining. You can compare rental rates for just the days you need on our car rental search.

The seven factors that decide it

1. The shape of the destination

This matters more than anything else. Cities built before the car, or rebuilt around rail, such as New York, London, Paris, Rome, Toronto, Montreal and Washington, reward going car-free; their attractions are close together, their transit is frequent, and driving and parking are slow and costly. Cities that grew up around the freeway, such as Los Angeles, Phoenix, Houston, Dallas and Orlando, spread attractions across huge distances and run transit that works for commuters more than visitors. Rural areas and national parks often have no useful transit at all.

2. Where you are staying

The same city can be a car trip or a transit trip depending on the hotel. A downtown hotel near a metro station makes a car unnecessary; a resort, a suburban rental or a relative’s house can make one essential. If you are flexible, it is often cheaper overall to pay a little more for a central, well-connected hotel than to pay for a car and parking to reach a cheaper one. Our hotel search lets you compare by neighborhood.

3. What is on the itinerary

List the places you want to go and ask how you would reach each one without a car. If most are in the center, transit wins. If two or three are an hour or more outside the city, consider renting only for those days. If most are spread out, rent for the trip.

4. Who is traveling

A solo traveler or couple with carry-ons can use any system. A family with a stroller, car seats and four suitcases, a group of five, or a traveler with limited mobility may find a car or taxis far easier, and the cost per person of a rental falls as the group grows.

5. The real budget

Transit is almost always the cheapest option per trip. A rental can be good value for a group, but its cost is more than the daily rate, as the next section shows. Taxis and ride-hail are the most expensive per mile and the cheapest overall only when you take very few trips.

6. Your comfort with driving there

Driving on the other side of the road, in a manual car, through narrow historic streets, in snow or in heavy city traffic is a real cost in stress and risk. Be honest about it. If you would not enjoy it, the trip will be better without it.

7. Time

On a short trip, time is the scarcest resource. A car can save hours when destinations are far apart; transit can save hours in a city where driving means traffic and parking hunts; a taxi can save the last hour before a flight.

What each option really costs

People tend to compare the rental rate with a transit fare and a taxi quote, which misleads in both directions. A fair comparison adds up everything for your actual plans.

A rental car costs the daily rate, plus taxes and airport fees, plus any young-driver or additional-driver fees, plus insurance you need to buy, plus fuel or charging, plus tolls and the rental company’s toll-program fees, plus parking at the hotel each night and at each stop during the day. In a big downtown, overnight hotel parking alone can rival the daily rate. Our rental car booking tips explain how to read the full price.

Public transport costs the fares, or a day or weekly pass, plus the airport link if it charges a premium, plus the occasional taxi for the trips transit does not cover. Many systems cap what you pay in a day or week when you tap with the same card, which makes it hard to overspend.

Taxis and ride-hail cost the fare, which rises with distance, time in traffic and demand, plus tips where customary, plus airport or event surcharges. A few rides a day across a big city add up fast.

To compare, sketch your days, estimate how many trips you would take and how far, and total each option. For a couple spending four days in a transit-rich city, transit plus two or three taxis will usually come out well ahead. For a family of five spending a week touring a spread-out region, the rental usually wins.

London Underground platforms at Whitechapel station — In a transit-rich city such as London, the train is usually faster and far cheaper than a car (Photo: TheFrog001 via Wikimedia Commons, CC0)

Renting a car: freedom, with overhead

Where it shines

Flexibility. Leave when you want, stop where you want, change the plan halfway through the day.
Reach. Trailheads, beaches, wineries, small towns and viewpoints that no bus serves.
Luggage and gear. Strollers, skis, coolers and beach chairs travel with you, and you can leave things in the trunk between stops (out of sight).
Families and groups. One vehicle carries everyone, and the per-person cost drops with each passenger.
Privacy and comfort. Your own climate control, music and schedule, which matters on long days with children.

Where it hurts

Parking in dense cities is expensive, scarce and time-consuming, and hotels often charge for it nightly.
Traffic in large cities can make a car slower than the train at the times you want to travel.
Unfamiliar rules: right turns on red (legal in most of the US and Canada, but not on the island of Montreal), camera-enforced restricted zones in European historic centers, toll roads that only take transponders, and roundabout etiquette.
One designated driver means one person who cannot relax, drink at dinner or watch the scenery.
Responsibility: damage, tickets, fuel, return times and insurance are all yours to manage.

Make a rental work better

Rent only for the days you need it, from a neighborhood branch if you are starting in the city. Choose a hotel with reasonable parking, or one on the edge of the center with easy transit in. Download offline maps. Learn how tolls are charged before you drive. And read our guide to car rental return timing so an extra hour does not turn into an extra day.

A winding road through the mountains on the Icefields Parkway in Alberta — Scenic drives and national parks are where a rental car earns its keep (Photo: m01229 from USA via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 2.0)

Public transport: cheap, fast in the right places, and easier than it looks

Where it shines

Cost. Usually the cheapest way to move around, often dramatically so.
Speed in dense cities. A metro line under a congested downtown beats any car at rush hour.
No parking, no driving stress. You arrive, walk out of the station and start exploring.
A view of local life, and in some cities, such as the ferries in Vancouver or Halifax, genuinely scenic rides.
Lower emissions per traveler than a car or a taxi.

Where it falls short

Coverage. Fixed routes and timetables do not reach everything, and service thins out at night, on weekends and away from the center.
Luggage. Stairs, crowded trains and turnstiles are hard with big suitcases and strollers.
Crowding at rush hour, and a learning curve in an unfamiliar language.
Accessibility varies. Some older systems have many stations without elevators; check before you rely on them.

How to learn a new system in 20 minutes

Look at the official map before you travel. Identify the lines near your hotel and the main sights, and note the line colors or numbers.
Find out how to pay. Many large systems now take contactless bank cards and phones at the gate or on the bus, including London, New York, Toronto, Vancouver and Chicago, and many cap daily or weekly spending when you tap with the same card. Others use their own card or an app. The operator’s site, such as Transport for London, the MTA in New York or the TTC in Toronto, explains fares and passes.
Check the airport link. Many airports have a direct rail connection, such as the Elizabeth line and Piccadilly line at Heathrow, the RER B at Paris Charles de Gaulle, the UP Express at Toronto Pearson, the Canada Line at Vancouver and the Blue Line at Chicago O’Hare, but some charge a premium fare. Our airport guides, such as Heathrow and Toronto Pearson, cover the options.
Use a journey planner. The operator’s own app or a general map app will give live times; download the offline map in case you lose signal underground.
Learn the late-night picture. Know when the last train runs and whether night buses replace it, so you are not stranded after dinner.

Taxis and ride-hail: convenience on demand

Where they shine

Door to door, with no transfers and no parking.
Airport runs with luggage, children or an early flight.
Late nights, bad weather, and neighborhoods transit does not reach.
Short trips across awkward gaps, where the transit route would take three times as long.

Where they fall short

Cost adds up quickly, especially over longer distances or several trips a day.
Surge pricing on ride-hail apps at peak times, after concerts and games, and in bad weather.
Traffic slows them as much as a rental.
Waits can be long at busy times or in less populated areas, and in some rural places there are simply no drivers.

Taxi or ride-hail?

In most US and Canadian cities, Uber and Lyft operate alongside licensed taxis, and outside North America you will find Uber in many countries alongside strong local apps. Ride-hail shows the price before you book, which helps in a new city; taxis can be quicker to find at a rank and are sometimes cheaper during surges. Some airports set flat taxi fares into the city, including JFK to Manhattan and the Paris airports into central Paris; check the current amount on the official airport or city site, such as the NYC Taxi and Limousine Commission, before you get in.

Using them safely and fairly

At airports, use the official taxi rank or the designated ride-hail pickup zone, and decline offers from people approaching you in the arrivals hall.
For ride-hail, match the plate and driver in the app before getting in.
For taxis, make sure the meter is running or agree the fare first where fares are fixed.
Know the tipping norm: customary in the US and Canada, less so in much of Europe.
If you have children who need car seats, know that rules for taxis vary by place and that most taxis and ride-hail cars will not have one; bring your own or plan around it.

A yellow New York City medallion taxi — Taxis and ride-hail fill the gaps: airport runs with bags, late nights and awkward cross-town trips (Photo: S5A-0043 via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 4.0)

The options people forget

Walking. In compact centers, the best way to see a city is on foot, and it costs nothing.
Bike share and scooters. Most large cities have docked bike share; they are ideal for short hops along waterfronts and park paths. Check the local rules on helmets and where you may ride.
Car share by the hour. In some cities, members can book a car for a few hours, which can beat a full-day rental for a single errand or excursion; sign-up usually takes time, so arrange it before the trip.
Airport and park shuttles. Scheduled coaches from airports to resort towns and national parks, and in-park shuttle systems, can replace a car for the part of the trip where it would be hardest to park.
Intercity trains and buses. For city-to-city legs, a train can be faster than driving once you count traffic and parking at both ends.
Day tours. For one remote sight, a tour with transport included can cost less than a day’s rental with fuel and parking.

A row of Citi Bikes docked on 42nd Street in Manhattan — Bike share is the option visitors forget, and often the quickest way to cover a short hop (Photo: Photograph by Mike Peel (www.mikepeel.net). via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0)

Match the approach to the trip

Trip type	Usually best	Why
City break in a transit-rich city	Transit and walking, taxis at night	Frequent service, expensive parking, sights close together
City break in a spread-out city	Rental car, or ride-hail if staying central	Long distances, thin transit away from the core
City plus day trips	Transit in the city, rent for the day-trip days	Pay for the car only when it earns its keep
Road trip or national parks	Rental car	No practical alternative for most routes
Beach or theme-park resort	Depends on the resort; a car for spread-out areas, shuttles where provided	Some resorts are self-contained, others spread over many miles
Family with young children	Rental car in most places; transit and taxis in the densest cities	Car seats, luggage, naps and flexibility
Solo traveler on a budget	Transit and walking	Cheapest per trip; a rental does not divide
Group of four to six adults	Rental or a large ride-hail car	Cost per person falls sharply
Business trip, downtown hotel	Taxis or ride-hail, airport rail link	Time matters, parking is costly, trips are short
Traveler with limited mobility	Taxis or accessible ride-hail; transit where fully accessible	Door to door, fewer stairs and transfers

City examples

A few illustrations of how the balance shifts:

New York: the subway and your feet cover almost everything; a car in Manhattan is a burden. See our New York guide.
Toronto: transit and walking work well downtown, and a rental earns its keep for Niagara, cottage country or a drive to Montreal. See our Toronto guide.
Washington, DC: Metro and walking cover the Mall and the main neighborhoods. See rent a car or take the Metro.
Los Angeles and Phoenix: distances are large and a car is the default for most visitors. See our guides to Los Angeles and Phoenix.
Las Vegas: the Strip is walkable and served by taxis and ride-hail, while a car makes sense for Red Rock, Hoover Dam or the Grand Canyon. See do you need a rental car in Las Vegas.
Calgary: transit covers the core, but most visitors are headed for Banff and the Rockies. See our Calgary guide.
Rome and Paris: historic centers restrict traffic, and a car is only worth it for countryside days. See our guides to Rome and Paris.

Mix and match: three sample plans

Four days in a big transit city

Take the airport train or a taxi to a central hotel. Use a contactless card or a multi-day pass for the metro and buses, walk as much as possible, and budget for a taxi or two at night. No rental.

A week split between a city and the countryside

Spend the first days in the city on transit. On the morning you leave, pick up a rental from a neighborhood branch near your hotel, drive out for the countryside days, and return it at the airport before your flight, pricing the one-way fee first.

A family week in a spread-out destination

Rent at the airport so the car seats go in once, choose a hotel or vacation rental with free parking, and plan each day around one or two areas to limit driving. Use ride-hail for a night out if the drivers want to relax. Our guide to car rentals for family vacations covers the vehicle and seat questions.

Common mistakes

Renting for the whole trip by default, then paying for a car that sits in a garage for three days.
Ignoring parking when comparing hotels and rentals.
Relying on ride-hail in remote areas, where drivers are scarce and you can be stranded after a hike or a late dinner.
Taking unofficial taxis offered inside airport terminals.
Not checking the last train, and paying a surge fare at midnight.
Underestimating the airport journey, whether by traffic, a rental return shuttle or a transfer; our guide to how early to get to the airport helps plan the buffer.

Frequently asked questions

Is it cheaper to rent a car or use taxis?

It depends on how many trips you take. For a few short rides a day in a city, taxis are often cheaper once you count parking, fuel and fees on a rental. For long distances, many stops or a group, a rental usually wins.

Is public transport safe for tourists?

In most major cities, yes, and it is used by millions of residents daily. Use normal city sense: keep valuables secure, stay aware late at night, and prefer busier cars and stations.

Should I rent a car at the airport or later?

If your first days are in a transit-friendly city, rent later from a neighborhood branch. If you are heading straight out of town or traveling with kids and luggage, rent at the airport.

Are Uber and Lyft available everywhere?

They are widely available in US and Canadian cities, and Uber operates in many other countries, but coverage is thin in rural areas and some countries favor local apps or licensed taxis. Check before you rely on them.

Can I use my credit card to pay for transit?

In many large cities, yes, by tapping a contactless card or phone at the gate or farebox. Check the operator’s site before you go.

What is the best option for a family?

In most destinations, a rental car, because of car seats, luggage and flexibility. In the densest cities, transit, walking and the occasional taxi are often easier.

Do I need a car to visit national parks?

Usually, yes, though some parks run shuttles and some gateway towns have coaches from the nearest airport. Check the park’s own site for current options and any vehicle reservation rules.

Once you have picked your approach, build the trip around it: compare cheap flights, choose a well-connected base with our hotel search, and price a rental for only the days you need on our car rental page.

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October 28, 2023

America’s Most Unique State Parks: Adventure Awaits

America’s national parks get the headlines, but some of the country’s strangest and most beautiful landscapes are protected as state parks. Red sandstone that seems to burn at sunset, stone spires named after a color film, a cypress swamp draped in Spanish moss, a river gorge with three great waterfalls, a volcanic field where you can dig for diamonds and keep what you find: these places are often less crowded than the big national parks, easier to fit into a long weekend, and close to cities with good flight connections. This guide profiles the state parks that stand out as genuinely unique, from the four in the original version of this article to seven more that deserve a place on the list. For each one, you will find what makes it special, when to go, how to get there and what to know before you set off, followed by advice on fees, reservations, safety and building a fly-and-drive trip around them.

The short answer

If you want desert color, start with Valley of Fire in Nevada, an hour from Las Vegas, and the Utah trio of Kodachrome Basin, Goblin Valley and Dead Horse Point. For water and forest, go to Letchworth in New York for its waterfalls and Caddo Lake in Texas for its cypress bayous. For wildlife, Custer State Park in South Dakota has free-roaming bison. For something completely different, dig for diamonds at Crater of Diamonds in Arkansas. Visit desert parks from fall to spring, not in midsummer; check each park’s official site for closures and reservations before you go; and plan to fly into a nearby city and rent a car, since almost none of these parks can be reached by public transport. Compare fares on our flight search and rental rates on our car rental search.

Swirling red and white sandstone stripes on the Fire Wave Trail in Valley of Fire State Park, Nevada — The Fire Wave in Valley of Fire State Park, about an hour from Las Vegas (Photo: Fabio Achilli from Milano, Italy via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 2.0)

State parks versus national parks

State parks are run by individual states rather than the federal government, and that affects how you plan a visit.

Fees and passes are set by each state. A federal national parks pass does not cover state parks. Most charge a day-use fee per vehicle or per person, and some charge more for vehicles registered out of state. If you plan several visits in one state, check whether a state annual pass is available.
Reservations work differently. Campgrounds and cabins are booked through each state’s own reservation system, and popular parks fill up months ahead for weekends and holidays. Some parks also limit day-use entry at busy times.
They are often less crowded. Many state parks see far fewer visitors than nearby national parks, especially midweek, although the most famous ones can still be busy on weekends and holidays.
They pair well with national parks. Several of the parks below sit close to famous national parks, which makes them easy to add to a road trip.

America’s most unique state parks

1. Valley of Fire State Park, Nevada

Valley of Fire earned its name from the red sandstone that seems to glow at sunrise and sunset. The park covers some 40,000 acres of bright red Aztec sandstone set among gray and tan limestone, with petrified trees and petroglyphs more than 2,000 years old. It is Nevada’s oldest state park and one of its most visited.

Don’t miss: the swirling stripes of the Fire Wave, the pastel rocks of the White Domes, the petroglyphs at Atlatl Rock and along the Mouse’s Tank trail, and Elephant Rock near the east entrance.
When to go: fall through spring. Summer temperatures are extreme, and some trails close during the hottest months for safety. The park also closes completely for maintenance for the first two weeks of December each year.
Getting there: about an hour’s drive northeast of Las Vegas, which makes it an easy day trip. Fly into Harry Reid International Airport, compare flights to Las Vegas, and pick up a rental car in Las Vegas.

Hours, fees, closures and trail information are on the official Valley of Fire page from Nevada State Parks. Our guides on whether you need a rental car in Las Vegas and things to do in Las Vegas help you build a trip that combines the Strip with the desert.

2. Kodachrome Basin State Park, Utah

The color and beauty of this basin in southern Utah led a National Geographic Society expedition to name it after Kodachrome color film in 1948. Its signature features are 67 monolithic stone spires called sedimentary pipes, rising from multi-hued sandstone layers that reveal around 180 million years of geologic history.

Don’t miss: the easy nature trail, the Panorama Trail for a longer loop past the spires, and the colors at sunrise and sunset.
When to go: spring and fall are ideal. Summers are hot, and winters can bring snow and cold nights at this elevation.
Stay: the park has campgrounds and cabins, which are popular, so reserve early.
Combine it: it sits a short drive from Bryce Canyon National Park, so many visitors pair the two, and it fits naturally into a southern Utah loop from Las Vegas or Salt Lake City.

See the official Kodachrome Basin page from Utah State Parks for camping and trail details.

Colorful sandstone cliffs and rock spires in Kodachrome Basin State Park, Utah — Kodachrome Basin in southern Utah, named after the color film in 1948 (Photo: Nhartmannphotos via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 4.0)

3. Goblin Valley State Park, Utah

Goblin Valley looks like another planet. Thousands of mushroom-shaped rock formations, known as hoodoos or goblins, crowd a valley in the desert of east-central Utah, and unlike many parks, visitors are free to wander among them off trail. The park is also known for its dark night skies, making it a great place to stargaze.

When to go: spring and fall. Summer days are very hot, and there is little shade.
Combine it: it sits between Capitol Reef National Park and the Moab area, so it slots easily into a longer Utah road trip.

4. Dead Horse Point State Park, Utah

Dead Horse Point is famous for one view: a sheer overlook high above a dramatic gooseneck bend in the Colorado River, with the canyons of Canyonlands stretching away beyond. It is close to Moab and to both Arches and Canyonlands national parks, and it is popular for sunrise, sunset and stargazing.

Tip: stay after dark if you can. The skies around Moab are famously dark, and the park is a popular stargazing spot.
Getting there: fly into Salt Lake City and drive south, or fly into Las Vegas for a loop that takes in Valley of Fire, Kodachrome Basin and Goblin Valley. Compare flights to Salt Lake City and car rentals in Salt Lake City, and see our guide to things to do in Salt Lake City for the city end of the trip.

5. Caddo Lake State Park, Texas

The original list described Caddo Lake as a labyrinth of waterways and swamps, and that still captures it. Towering bald cypress trees draped with Spanish moss rise out of Big Cypress Bayou, and paddling the channels feels closer to the Louisiana bayou country next door than to the Texas of most people’s imagination. The fishing is excellent, with more than 70 species recorded.

Don’t miss: a canoe or kayak trip along the paddling trails, a guided boat tour from one of the nearby marinas, and a night in one of the historic cabins built by the Civilian Conservation Corps more than 80 years ago.
When to go: spring and fall are the most comfortable. Summer is hot and humid, and the mosquitoes are out in force.
Getting there: the park is in East Texas, close to the Louisiana line, a few hours’ drive east of Dallas. Compare flights to Dallas and a rental car in Dallas; our guide on whether to rent a car or use transit in Dallas explains the options.

Reservations, alerts and paddling maps are on the official Caddo Lake State Park page from Texas Parks and Wildlife.

6. Palo Duro Canyon State Park, Texas

Texas Parks and Wildlife describes Palo Duro Canyon as the second largest canyon in the country. It cuts through the flat Texas Panhandle in layers of red, orange and white rock, and it is a surprise to anyone who expects nothing but plains.

Don’t miss: the hike to the Lighthouse, the canyon’s best-known rock formation; the scenic drive to the canyon floor; and, in summer, the outdoor musical performances held in the canyon amphitheater.
When to go: spring and fall. Summer is very hot on the canyon floor, so hike early and carry plenty of water.
Getting there: the park is near Amarillo, which is reached by domestic flights or a long drive from Dallas.

Visit the official Palo Duro Canyon State Park page for trail conditions and reservations.

7. Letchworth State Park, New York

Known as the “Grand Canyon of the East”, Letchworth is one of the most scenic places in the eastern United States. The Genesee River roars through a gorge over three major waterfalls, between cliffs as high as 600 feet in some places, surrounded by forest. There are 66 miles of hiking trails, as well as routes for horseback riding, biking and winter sports.

Don’t miss: the Upper, Middle and Lower Falls, the Gorge Trail along the rim, and the views from the park’s many overlooks.
When to go: summer for long days and full facilities; October for spectacular fall color, which makes it one of the park’s busiest times. Campgrounds and cabins operate seasonally and are booked through the state’s reservation system.
Getting there: the park is in western New York, within easy driving distance of Rochester and Buffalo, and it makes a good road trip from Toronto via one of the Niagara crossings; bring your passport and check border requirements. Compare car rentals in Toronto and confirm that your rental company allows cross-border travel.

Opening dates and camping information are on the official Letchworth State Park page from New York State Parks. If you would rather combine New York’s outdoors with the city, our guide to New York on a budget covers the other end of the state.

The Middle Falls of the Genesee River plunging into the gorge at Letchworth State Park, New York — Middle Falls at Letchworth State Park, the "Grand Canyon of the East" (Photo: Andre Carrotflower via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0)

8. Custer State Park, South Dakota

Custer State Park, in the Black Hills, is one of the best places in the country to see bison roaming free. Its Wildlife Loop Road passes through grasslands where you may also see pronghorn, elk, deer and the park’s famous begging burros, and its winding scenic roads squeeze between granite spires and through narrow tunnels.

Safety: the animals are used to cars, but they are wild. Stay in your vehicle or keep at least 100 yards from bison and elk, as the park advises.
When to go: late spring to early fall. The park’s annual bison roundup in the fall is a major event.
Combine it: Mount Rushmore, Wind Cave National Park and Badlands National Park are all within reach, making the Black Hills a great road-trip region.

See the official Custer State Park page from South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks for lodging, campgrounds and visitor centers.

9. Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, California

Anza-Borrego is the largest state park in California, a vast desert of badlands, palm oases and canyons with hundreds of miles of dirt roads and twelve wilderness areas. In a good year, spring rains trigger spectacular wildflower displays, and patient visitors may spot bighorn sheep.

Don’t miss: the visitor center near Borrego Springs, the badlands views from Font’s Point, and the giant metal sculptures scattered around Borrego Springs.
When to go: late fall through spring. Wildflower season depends entirely on winter rainfall, so check the park’s updates. Summers are dangerously hot.
Check before you go: some trails can be closed after fire or flood damage; the park’s page lists current closures.
Getting there: a scenic drive inland from San Diego. Compare flights to San Diego and car rentals in San Diego, and see our guide to things to do in San Diego.

The official Anza-Borrego Desert State Park page from California State Parks has closures, campground information and seasonal updates.

10. Crater of Diamonds State Park, Arkansas

This is the only place in the world where the public can search for natural diamonds in their original volcanic source. Visitors search a 37-acre plowed field on the eroded surface of an ancient volcanic crater, and any rock, mineral or gem you find is yours to keep. The largest diamond ever unearthed in the United States, the 40.23-carat Uncle Sam, was found here before it became a state park.

How it works: bring your own hand tools or rent them at the park. Battery-operated and motorized tools are not allowed.
Tips: searching after rain can make diamonds easier to spot on the surface, and the park staff can help identify finds.
When to go: spring and fall are most comfortable; summer in the open field is hot.

The official Crater of Diamonds page from Arkansas State Parks explains the rules and has tips for first-time searchers.

11. Starved Rock State Park, Illinois

Starved Rock surprises visitors who think of Illinois as flat. Sandstone canyons carved by glacial meltwater cut into the bluffs along the Illinois River, and after spring rains or snowmelt, waterfalls pour into many of them. In winter, eagles gather along the river.

When to go: spring for waterfalls, fall for color, winter for eagles and frozen falls. Summer weekends are busy.
Getting there: a comfortable day trip from Chicago by car. Compare flights to Chicago and car rentals in Chicago, and see our guide to things to do in Chicago.

At a glance

Park	State	Why it is unique	Best season	Nearest major airport
Valley of Fire	Nevada	Red sandstone, petroglyphs	October to April	Las Vegas
Kodachrome Basin	Utah	Sedimentary pipes, color	Spring and fall	Las Vegas or Salt Lake City
Goblin Valley	Utah	Thousands of hoodoos, dark skies	Spring and fall	Salt Lake City
Dead Horse Point	Utah	Colorado River gooseneck overlook	Spring and fall	Salt Lake City
Caddo Lake	Texas	Cypress bayou paddling	Spring and fall	Dallas
Palo Duro Canyon	Texas	Second largest canyon in the country	Spring and fall	Amarillo or Dallas
Letchworth	New York	Gorge with three major waterfalls	Summer and October	Buffalo, Rochester or Toronto
Custer	South Dakota	Free-roaming bison	Late spring to early fall	Rapid City
Anza-Borrego	California	Desert wilderness, wildflowers	Late fall to spring	San Diego
Crater of Diamonds	Arkansas	Dig for diamonds and keep them	Spring and fall	Little Rock
Starved Rock	Illinois	Canyons and seasonal waterfalls	Spring, fall and winter	Chicago

Road trips that link several parks

The Southwest loop

Fly into Las Vegas and spend a day at Valley of Fire. Continue into southern Utah for Kodachrome Basin and Bryce Canyon, then head north and east through Capitol Reef to Goblin Valley and on to Moab for Dead Horse Point, Arches and Canyonlands. Finish in Salt Lake City and fly home from there. A one-way rental usually costs more than a round trip, so compare it with looping back to Las Vegas; our guide to car rental return timing explains how pickup and drop-off times affect the price.

Texas two ways

From Dallas, Caddo Lake makes a relaxed weekend of paddling and cabin life in East Texas. Palo Duro Canyon is a separate trip to the Panhandle, best combined with a stay in Amarillo.

Great Lakes and New York

Letchworth pairs naturally with Niagara Falls and the Finger Lakes wine region, and it is an easy drive from Toronto, Buffalo or Rochester. Starved Rock is a separate day trip from Chicago.

The Black Hills

Fly into Rapid City and spend three or four days combining Custer State Park with Mount Rushmore, Wind Cave and the Badlands.

Planning your trip

Flights

These parks are spread across the country, so start by finding the nearest major airport with good fares from your home city. Our guide to cheap domestic flights in the USA explains how to find them, and our guide to the best time to book cheap flights and hotels covers timing. Canadian travelers should compare flights from Toronto and other gateways into Las Vegas, Salt Lake City, Dallas, San Diego or Chicago.

Rental cars

A car is essential for almost every park on this list. Reserve early for peak seasons, check mileage limits for long road trips, and choose a vehicle suited to the roads; most park roads are paved, but some scenic drives and backcountry routes are gravel or dirt and may be off limits under your rental agreement. Our rental car booking tips cover insurance and fees, and our guide to car rentals for family vacations helps if you are traveling with children.

Where to stay

State park campgrounds and cabins are the most atmospheric option and often the best value, but they book up quickly. Reserve through each state’s official system as soon as your dates are set. Otherwise, stay in the nearest gateway town or city; in Las Vegas, for example, rooms on the Strip are often much cheaper midweek than at weekends, which suits a desert day trip. Compare options on our hotel search.

Fees, reservations and passes

Every state sets its own fees, and some charge more for out-of-state vehicles. Check the official park page for current day-use fees, hours and any timed-entry or reservation system before you drive out, and consider a state annual pass if you plan several visits. Parks are one of the best-value trips there is, and our guide on how to save money for a trip shows how to fund the flights and car.

Safety and park etiquette

Respect the heat. Desert parks can be dangerously hot from late spring to early fall. Hike early, carry more water than you think you need, and turn back if you feel unwell. Some parks close trails in summer for this reason.
Keep your distance from wildlife. Bison, elk and other large animals can injure people who get too close. Follow each park’s distance guidance.
Stay on marked trails where required and leave rocks, plants and artifacts where you find them, except at Crater of Diamonds, where keeping your finds is the point.
Never touch petroglyphs. Oils from skin damage them, and defacing them is illegal.
Check conditions before you go. Flash floods, fire damage, maintenance closures and seasonal road closures all happen. The official park page is the most reliable source.
Leave no trace. Pack out all trash, respect quiet hours in campgrounds and keep pets leashed where they are allowed.

What to pack

Bring sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots, a sun hat, sunscreen and sunglasses, layers for cool desert mornings and evenings, a refillable water bottle or hydration pack, snacks, a headlamp for stargazing, and a paper map, since cell coverage is patchy in many parks. A comfortable daypack makes a big difference on longer hikes; our guide to the best hiking backpacks can help you choose one. For paddling at Caddo Lake, add insect repellent and quick-drying clothes; for Crater of Diamonds, a bucket, a small trowel and a change of shoes.

Bald cypress trees rising from the calm water of Caddo Lake in East Texas — Bald cypress on Caddo Lake, best explored by canoe or kayak (Photo: Maciej Kraus via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 2.0)

Common mistakes to avoid

Visiting desert parks in midsummer without planning for extreme heat.
Assuming a national parks pass covers state parks. It does not.
Arriving without a reservation for popular campgrounds and cabins on holiday weekends.
Underestimating distances. Parks that look close on a map can be hours apart, especially in Utah and Texas.
Not checking closures. Valley of Fire, for example, closes for two weeks every December, and trails anywhere can close after storms or fires.
Relying on your phone for navigation. Download offline maps before you lose signal.

Frequently asked questions

What is the most unique state park in the US?

It depends on what you are looking for, but Crater of Diamonds stands out because it is the only place in the world where the public can dig for diamonds in their original volcanic source. For scenery, Valley of Fire, Kodachrome Basin and Goblin Valley are hard to beat.

Do I need a reservation to visit a state park?

For day visits, usually not, though some popular parks limit entry at busy times. Campgrounds and cabins almost always need reservations, often months ahead for weekends and holidays. Check the official park page before you go.

Does the America the Beautiful pass work at state parks?

No. That pass covers federal lands such as national parks. State parks set their own fees, and many states sell their own annual passes.

When is the best time to visit desert state parks?

Fall through spring. Summer temperatures in parks like Valley of Fire, Anza-Borrego and Goblin Valley can be dangerous, and some trails close in the hottest months.

Can I visit these parks without a car?

Generally not. A few offer guided tours from nearby cities, such as Valley of Fire from Las Vegas, but a rental car gives you far more flexibility.

Which state park is best for families?

Crater of Diamonds is a hit with children, Custer State Park’s wildlife is thrilling for all ages, and Starved Rock and Letchworth have plenty of shorter trails and overlooks.

Can Canadians easily visit these parks?

Yes. Letchworth and Starved Rock are within reach of the Great Lakes region, and the western parks are an easy fly-and-drive trip via Las Vegas, Salt Lake City or San Diego. Carry your passport and check US entry requirements before you travel.

Ready to explore? Find flights to the nearest gateway city on our flight search, book a rental car for the drive, and compare rooms near the park on our hotel search. For more ways to travel well without overspending, read our guide to budget travel destinations, and for a very different kind of escape, see our relaxing vacations for doing absolutely nothing or our guide to the best cities for Christmas in the USA.

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October 23, 2023

Plan a Perfect Honeymoon in the Cayman Islands: Your Ultimate Guide

The Cayman Islands are made for honeymoons. Grand Cayman’s Seven Mile Beach is one of the most famous stretches of sand in the Caribbean, the water is famously clear, and the islands combine polished resorts and excellent restaurants with quiet corners where you will barely see another couple. It is also easy to reach: a short flight from Miami and a direct flight from several other North American cities. What makes the difference between a nice week and a perfect one is planning: choosing the right island and the right part of it, picking dates that balance weather and price, understanding the entry rules, and booking the handful of experiences that really are worth it, from swimming with stingrays to night kayaking in glowing water. This guide covers all of it, step by step, so you can spend the trip itself doing as little planning as possible.

The short answer

For most couples, the best plan is five to seven nights on Grand Cayman, split between a resort or condo on or near Seven Mile Beach and, if you want more seclusion, a few nights on the quieter East End or North Side. Divers and couples who want real solitude should add two to four nights on Little Cayman or Cayman Brac, reached by a short inter-island flight. The dry season from December to April has the most reliable weather and the highest prices; May and early June and late November to mid-December are the value windows. The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June through November, so buy travel insurance if you book then. Rent a car for at least part of the stay, and remember that Cayman drives on the left. Compare fares to Grand Cayman on our flight search and book as soon as your wedding date is set.

White sand and turquoise water along Seven Mile Beach on Grand Cayman — Seven Mile Beach on Grand Cayman: calm water, soft sand and sunsets over the sea (Photo: Coolcaesar via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 4.0)

Choosing your island

The Cayman Islands are three islands with very different personalities.

Island	Best for	Where you stay	How you get there
Grand Cayman	Beaches, dining, variety, first-time visitors	Beachfront resorts, condos and villas	International flights to Owen Roberts International Airport
Cayman Brac	Diving, hiking, caves, quiet	Small resorts, dive lodges, rental homes	Inter-island flight from Grand Cayman
Little Cayman	Wall diving, snorkeling, total seclusion	A handful of small resorts and lodges	Inter-island flight from Grand Cayman

Grand Cayman

Grand Cayman is the largest and most developed island and where almost every honeymoon starts. The west coast is home to Seven Mile Beach, the capital George Town, the Camana Bay waterfront with its shops and restaurants, and most of the big resorts. The north side and the East End are much quieter, with smaller resorts, villas and long empty stretches of coast. Grand Cayman gives you the widest choice of restaurants, spas and activities, and it is the easiest island to reach.

Cayman Brac

Cayman Brac is named for the Bluff, a limestone ridge that rises along the island and ends in dramatic cliffs at the eastern end. It appeals to couples who like to be active: diving and snorkeling, hiking the Bluff, exploring caves and watching for birds. Accommodation is low-key, and evenings are quiet.

Little Cayman

The smallest of the three is the most secluded. Little Cayman is famous among divers for Bloody Bay Wall, where the reef drops away into deep blue water, and for the Booby Pond Nature Reserve, home to a large colony of seabirds. Beaches like Point of Sand are often empty. There is very little nightlife and only a few places to stay, which is exactly the point.

The official Visit Cayman Islands site has guides to each island, and its pages on Little Cayman and Cayman Brac are useful if you are considering a two-island trip.

When to go

Peak season: December to April

This is the dry season, with warm, sunny days, lower humidity and calm seas on the west coast. It is also the busiest and most expensive time, especially over Christmas, New Year and US and Canadian spring breaks. If you are marrying in winter and want to travel right away, book flights and rooms as early as possible.

Shoulder seasons: May to early June, late November to mid-December

These are the sweet spots for many honeymooners. The weather is usually still good, crowds thin out, and room rates generally ease compared with the winter peak. May and June can be hotter and more humid, and late November sits at the tail end of hurricane season.

Hurricane season: June to November

The Atlantic hurricane season officially runs from June 1 to November 30, with the greatest activity usually from August to October. Most days in this period are fine, and prices are at their lowest, but a storm can disrupt flights and plans. If you travel in these months, buy travel insurance that covers weather disruption, choose flexible bookings, and follow forecasts from the US National Hurricane Center in the days before departure.

Festivals

Cayman’s calendar includes Pirates Week, the national festival, usually held in November, and Batabano, the islands’ carnival, usually in spring. Both are fun, but they also bring crowds, so check dates before you book if you want to join in or avoid them.

Entry rules and what to bring

Rules change and depend on your nationality, so confirm everything on the official government pages before you travel.

Passport and return ticket. Visitors must show a passport or other valid travel document that is valid beyond the date of their return ticket, together with a return or onward ticket, and may be asked to show they have enough funds for their stay. See the Cayman Islands Customs and Border Control entry requirements for the details.
Visas. Some nationalities need a visitor visa; many, including Canadian and US citizens, do not for a normal vacation. Check the official list for your passport.
Newlywed names. Book your flights in the names shown on your passports. If you plan to change your name after the wedding, travel on your existing passport and change it after the trip.
Zero tolerance for drugs. The Cayman Islands strictly enforce their drug laws. Cannabis in all forms is illegal, including THC and CBD products such as gummies, vapes and edibles, even if they are legal where you live. Leave them at home.
Travel advice. Canadians can read the Government of Canada’s travel advice for the Cayman Islands; US citizens should check the State Department’s page.

If you are thinking of marrying in the Cayman Islands rather than just honeymooning there, the legal requirements for a marriage license are set by the Cayman Islands Government. Start early and confirm them through official sources before you book.

Booking your flights

All international flights arrive at Owen Roberts International Airport on Grand Cayman. Cayman Airways, the national carrier, flies from several US cities, including Miami, Tampa and New York, and other airlines add service from further US hubs and from Toronto. Some routes run only seasonally, so check current schedules on the Cayman Airways website and the Cayman Islands Airports Authority site.

From Canada: compare nonstop options from Toronto with one-stop routings through US hubs. From other Canadian cities, a connection is usually needed.
From the US: Miami is the busiest gateway, with a short flight across to Grand Cayman. Compare fares from Miami, from New York and your nearest hub.
Consider a stopover. If you are connecting through Miami anyway, a night or two there can add a city break to the honeymoon; our guide to things to do in Miami has ideas, and our best time to fly to Miami guide covers the seasons.
Book early for peak dates. Winter holiday and spring break flights fill up. Our guide to the best time to book cheap flights and hotels explains booking windows, and our international flight booking tips cover connections and baggage.
Inter-island flights. Cayman Airways operates the short flights from Grand Cayman to Cayman Brac and Little Cayman. The small aircraft have tight baggage limits, so check the rules and pack accordingly, especially if you are bringing dive gear.

Where to stay

Accommodation shapes a honeymoon more than anything else, so choose the setting first and the specific property second.

Seven Mile Beach

The classic choice. The beach faces west, so you get sunsets over the water, the sea is usually calm and good for swimming, and restaurants, bars and shops are close at hand. Options range from large full-service resorts to smaller condo complexes with kitchens. The beach is public, so it is lively around the big hotels and quieter at the northern and southern ends.

East End and North Side

If you want quiet, stay here. The pace is slower, the reefs are close to shore, and many places have a real sense of seclusion. You will want a rental car, because restaurants and sights are more spread out. Villas and smaller resorts are common, and some couples split the stay: a few nights of seclusion here, then a few near Seven Mile Beach for dining and nightlife.

Villas and condos

A private villa or condo gives you space, a kitchen and often a pool of your own. It can also help the budget: Cayman is expensive to eat out in, and cooking some breakfasts and lunches makes a noticeable difference over a week.

Cayman Brac and Little Cayman

Expect small resorts and dive lodges, often with meal plans and dive packages. They are relaxed rather than luxurious, but the setting is extraordinary. Book early, since there are only a few properties.

Wherever you stay, tell the property it is your honeymoon when you book; some offer small extras. Compare total prices including taxes and service charges, and read the cancellation terms carefully, especially for hurricane-season dates. Our hotel booking tips explain what to check, and you can compare rooms on our hotel search.

Getting around

A rental car is the easiest way to explore Grand Cayman beyond Seven Mile Beach. Cayman drives on the left, roundabouts are common, and the roads around George Town can be congested at rush hour. Your rental company will explain what you need to drive legally as a visitor, so ask when you book. Taxis are widely available but can add up; there is also a public bus network on Grand Cayman. On Cayman Brac and Little Cayman, many visitors rent a car, scooter or bicycle. Our rental car booking tips cover insurance and pickup, and our comparison of renting a car, public transport and taxis can help you decide how much driving you need.

What to do on your honeymoon

Beach days on Seven Mile Beach

The original version of this guide started with the beach, and so should you. Seven Mile Beach is soft, wide and calm, with clear water for swimming and snorkeling right off the sand. Despite the name, it is a little shorter than seven miles. Pick a quiet stretch, bring snorkel gear and plan to watch the sunset.

Stingray City and Starfish Point

Stingray City is a series of shallow sandbars in the North Sound where southern stingrays gather, and standing in waist-deep water as they glide around you is one of the Caribbean’s great experiences. Boat trips usually combine it with snorkeling on a nearby reef, and some stop at Starfish Point on the north coast, where starfish sit in the shallows. Follow your guide’s instructions, never lift starfish out of the water, and treat the rays gently. The official Stingray City page explains how visits work.

Snorkelers standing in shallow water with southern stingrays at Stingray City, Grand Cayman — Stingray City, a sandbar in Grand Cayman's North Sound where wild southern stingrays gather (Photo: Kfulgham84 via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0)

Snorkeling and diving

Cayman is one of the Caribbean’s best-known diving destinations, with walls, reefs and wrecks close to shore. Highlights include the Kittiwake, a former US Navy ship sunk off Seven Mile Beach as an artificial reef, which snorkelers can see from the surface; the reefs of the East End; and, for experienced divers, the walls of Little Cayman and Cayman Brac. If you have never dived, a resort course with a reputable operator is a good way to try it together. Much of the coastline is protected in marine parks with rules on fishing, anchoring and touching marine life; the Department of Environment’s marine parks page explains them.

Bioluminescent bay

Night tours by kayak or boat take you into waters where tiny organisms light up with every paddle stroke. The effect is strongest on dark nights, so check the moon phase and book for a night near the new moon if you can.

Rum Point and the north coast

Rum Point, on Grand Cayman’s north side, is a relaxed beach with hammocks under the trees and calm, shallow water. Drive around, or take a boat across the North Sound, and spend a lazy afternoon there.

Nature and history

The Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park on the north side has gardens, woodland trails and a conservation program for the endangered blue iguana, found only on Grand Cayman. Pedro St. James, a restored historic great house on the south coast, tells the story of the islands’ early history, and the Mastic Trail follows an old footpath through native forest. In West Bay, the jagged black rock formations of Hell make a quirky short stop.

An endangered Grand Cayman blue iguana resting on rocks — The blue iguana is found only on Grand Cayman; see it at the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park (Photo: Charles J. Sharp via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0)

Island tours

The original guide suggested exploring all three islands, and it is a good idea if you have the time. A day trip to Little Cayman or Cayman Brac is possible by air, but two or more nights are far more rewarding.

Fine dining and local food

Grand Cayman has a remarkable restaurant scene for an island of its size, from beachfront fine dining to casual fish shacks. Try the local catch prepared Cayman-style with peppers and onions, conch fritters and ceviche, and fish fry nights at local spots. Book popular restaurants ahead, especially for special-occasion dinners, and ask for a table at sunset.

Sunset sails and spa days

A sunset catamaran sail, a private boat charter or a couples’ spa day at one of the resorts are classic honeymoon splurges. They are worth booking in advance in peak season.

Sample honeymoon itineraries

Five days on Grand Cayman: arrive and settle in on Seven Mile Beach; spend day two on a boat trip to Stingray City and Starfish Point; day three is a beach and spa day; on day four, drive to the East End and the Botanic Park, then Rum Point for the afternoon; finish with a sunset sail and a special dinner.

Seven days, two settings: three nights near Seven Mile Beach for restaurants, snorkeling and Stingray City, then four nights in a villa on the East End or North Side for quiet days, reef snorkeling, a bioluminescence tour and slow evenings.

Ten days, two islands: five nights on Grand Cayman, then fly to Little Cayman or Cayman Brac for four or five nights of diving, hiking and empty beaches.

Planning timeline

Six to twelve months before: set your dates, choose the island and the area, and book flights and accommodation, especially for December to April.
Three to six months before: check passports and entry rules, buy travel insurance, and book the experiences that sell out, such as dive packages, private charters and special dinners.
One month before: reserve your rental car, confirm inter-island flights and baggage limits, and plan a rough outline for each day.
The week before: check the weather forecast, confirm bookings, save documents offline and pack reef-safe sunscreen.

Keeping costs under control

The Cayman Islands are one of the more expensive destinations in the Caribbean, particularly for dining and groceries, so it pays to be deliberate.

Travel in the shoulder season, when room rates are generally lower than in winter.
Choose a condo or villa with a kitchen and cook breakfasts and some lunches.
Splurge selectively on the two or three experiences that matter most, and enjoy the free ones: public beaches, snorkeling from shore and sunsets.
Understand the currency. The Cayman Islands dollar is pegged to the US dollar, and US dollars are widely accepted, but change is often given in local currency. Check whether prices are quoted in Cayman or US dollars.
Check for service charges on restaurant bills before adding a tip.

Our guide on how to save money for a trip shows how to set up a honeymoon fund, and our pillar guide to budget travel destinations explains how to time a splurge trip for the best value.

Calm shallow water and palm-shaded sand at Rum Point on Grand Cayman's north side — Rum Point on the north side of Grand Cayman, made for a slow afternoon in a hammock (Photo: Lhb1239 via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0)

Safety and practical tips

Sun and sea: the tropical sun is strong. Use reef-safe sunscreen, wear a rash guard for long snorkels and drink plenty of water. Watch the currents and swim where others do.
Marine life: never touch coral, and do not stand on reefs. Follow your guide’s instructions at Stingray City.
Driving: stay on the left, take roundabouts slowly and do not drink and drive.
Valuables: Cayman is generally considered safe, but do not leave belongings unattended on beaches or visible in parked cars.
Health: buy travel insurance with medical coverage, since provincial and many US plans cover little abroad.

Common mistakes to avoid

Booking too late for winter. The best rooms and fares for December to April go early.
Skipping travel insurance in hurricane season. Most trips go ahead, but you want cover if one does not.
Staying in one place without a car. The quieter parts of Grand Cayman are what many couples remember most.
Packing CBD products. They are illegal in the Cayman Islands.
Overpacking for the small inter-island planes. Check the baggage limits first.
Over-scheduling. Leave at least a couple of days with nothing planned. If that is the whole idea, our list of relaxing vacations for doing absolutely nothing has more inspiration.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best month for a Cayman honeymoon?

For weather, December to April. For the best balance of weather, price and crowds, consider May or early December. Late summer and early fall are the cheapest but carry the highest hurricane risk.

Which Cayman island is best for a honeymoon?

Grand Cayman for beaches, dining and variety; Little Cayman for seclusion and world-class diving; Cayman Brac for active couples who like hiking and caves. Many couples combine Grand Cayman with one of the smaller islands.

How many days do we need?

Five to seven nights on Grand Cayman is ideal. Add three to five nights if you want to include Little Cayman or Cayman Brac.

Do we need a passport to visit the Cayman Islands?

Yes. Visitors must have a passport or other valid travel document that is valid beyond their return date, plus a return or onward ticket. Some nationalities also need a visa, so check the official Customs and Border Control page.

Do we need to rent a car?

Not if you stay on Seven Mile Beach and join organized tours, but a car makes it much easier to explore the East End, the north coast and the Botanic Park. Remember that Cayman drives on the left.

Is the Cayman Islands expensive?

Yes, compared with many Caribbean destinations, especially for food and drink. A condo with a kitchen, shoulder-season dates and selective splurges keep costs under control.

Can we swim with stingrays?

Yes. Boat tours to Stingray City in the North Sound let you stand in shallow water with wild southern stingrays. Book with an established operator and follow the guide’s instructions.

Ready to plan your Cayman honeymoon? Compare flights to Grand Cayman from your nearest airport on our flight search, then find the right beachfront hotel or villa on our hotel search. If you are still deciding between a beach honeymoon and a city adventure, see our guides to England, Italy and France and traveling to Japan.

Keep planning with TicketScanner

Budget travel destinations: the best-value picks
Seven relaxing vacations for doing absolutely nothing
How to save money for a trip
England, Italy or France: how to choose
Travel to Japan: planning a first trip
America's most unique state parks
Compare flights to Grand Cayman — shoulder-season dates are often better value
Compare hotel and resort prices
Things to do in Miami

October 18, 2023

Best Places To Visit In Europe In Fall

Fall is Europe’s best-kept open secret. The summer crowds thin out after the school holidays, room rates and transatlantic fares ease, the Mediterranean is still warm enough to swim in September, and the countryside turns gold just as the harvest brings wine, truffles and festivals to the table. City museums are quieter, restaurants are easier to book, and the light is kinder for photographs. The trade-offs are shorter days, more changeable weather in the north, and seasonal closures on some islands and in some mountain resorts as the season winds down. This guide explains how fall travel in Europe works month by month, profiles the destinations that are at their best between September and November, from Oktoberfest in Munich to truffle season in Piedmont, and shows how to plan the flights, rooms and routes so you get the benefits of the season without the pitfalls.

The short answer

In September, go south and to the coast: the Greek islands, Croatia’s Dalmatian coast and southern Italy still have summer weather with fewer people, and Munich hosts Oktoberfest late in the month. In October, go for food, color and culture: Piedmont’s truffle season, Portugal’s Douro Valley after the harvest, Prague and Transylvania in their autumn colors, and Rome and Andalusia in comfortable warmth. In November, choose cities: Paris, London, Vienna and Budapest are at their quietest and cheapest before the Christmas markets open late in the month. Book Oktoberfest and harvest-weekend stays early, keep everything else flexible, and compare fall fares into Europe’s gateways on our flight search.

Fairground rides and show booths lit up at Oktoberfest in Munich — Oktoberfest in Munich runs from late September to the first Sunday in October; book rooms early (Photo: Richard Bartz, Munich aka Makro Freak via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 2.5)

How fall travel in Europe works

Shoulder season pricing

From mid-September, most of Europe moves out of peak season. The exact timing varies: the Mediterranean coast stays busy into early October, while northern cities quieten as soon as schools go back. Hotels drop their rates, and flights from North America usually become easier to find at reasonable prices once the summer rush has passed. The exceptions are the big events, such as Oktoberfest, major trade fairs and harvest-festival weekends, which can fill every room in town. Our guide to the best time to book cheap flights and hotels covers booking windows in detail.

Weather north and south

Europe is a big continent, and fall means very different things in Lisbon and Edinburgh. In the south, September is often still summer, October is warm and mostly dry, and November brings more rain but mild temperatures. In the north and center, September is pleasant, October is crisp with the best autumn colors, and November is gray, damp and short on daylight. Pack layers and a waterproof jacket wherever you go.

Shorter days and a clock change

Daylight shrinks quickly through the season, especially in the north. European countries end daylight saving time on the last Sunday of October, so evenings get dark noticeably earlier from that point. Plan outdoor sightseeing for the morning and early afternoon, and save museums, food and nightlife for the evenings.

Seasonal closures

On islands and in beach and mountain resorts, many hotels, restaurants and ferry routes run a reduced schedule or close as the season ends, often from late October or November. Great for quiet, not great if you arrive to find the only taverna shut. Check opening dates and ferry timetables before you commit to a remote destination late in the season.

The best places to visit in Europe in fall

1. Munich, Germany: Oktoberfest

If beer halls, brass bands and Bavarian food are your idea of a good time, Munich in late September is the place to be. Oktoberfest, the world’s largest folk festival, traditionally starts on a Saturday in the second half of September and runs until the first Sunday in October, extended to October 3 when that date falls later. Entry to the grounds is free; you pay for what you eat and drink, and tables in the big tents can be reserved in advance.

Why go: the beer tents, traditional food, the opening parade and the costume and rifle marksmen’s parade on the first Sunday, and a city in full festival mode.
Plan ahead: hotel rates rise sharply during the festival and rooms sell out. Book as early as you can, or stay in a nearby town with a fast train link.
Beyond the festival: the Bavarian Alps, Neuschwanstein Castle and Salzburg are all popular day trips once the festival ends and prices settle.

Dates, tent information and visitor rules are on the official Oktoberfest website.

2. Transylvania, Romania: castles and autumn forests

Transylvania’s medieval towns, fortified churches and Carpathian forests are at their most atmospheric in October, when the hills turn red and gold and Halloween brings a little extra theater to the region’s Dracula connections.

Why go: Bran Castle, long associated with the Dracula legend; the Saxon old town of Brașov; the hilltop citadel of Sighișoara; and hiking and scenic drives in the Carpathians.
Getting there: most visitors fly into Bucharest and take the train or drive to Brașov, which makes the best base. Brașov also has its own small airport.
Getting around: a rental car gives you the most freedom for the villages and fortified churches; trains and buses link the main towns.

Opening hours and ticket information for the castle are on the official Bran Castle website. Romania is part of the Schengen area, and it offers very good value; our guide to budget travel destinations covers more places like it.

3. Santorini and the Greek islands: summer’s afterglow

Santorini in July and August is crowded and expensive. In September and early October, the sea is still warm, the sunsets over the caldera are just as spectacular, and the island is noticeably calmer, especially in the evenings once day-trippers leave.

Why go: sunsets from Oia and Fira, volcanic beaches, wineries, and the whitewashed villages without the peak-season crush.
Timing: the season winds down through October, and many hotels and restaurants close for winter from about November. Ferry schedules also thin out, so check them before planning an island hop.
Alternatives: Crete and Rhodes, larger islands with more year-round life, stay warm into late fall.

The Greek National Tourism Organisation’s Visit Greece site covers the islands and the mainland.

4. Piedmont, Italy: truffle and wine season

Piedmont, in Italy’s northwest, is where fall becomes a feast. The grape harvest in the hills of the Langhe and Roero brings the region’s famous reds into the cellars, and the white truffle season begins, celebrated at the International White Truffle Fair in Alba on weekends from October into early December.

Why go: truffle markets and tasting menus, wine tasting in Barolo and Barbaresco country, hill towns wrapped in autumn fog, and Turin’s elegant cafés and museums.
Getting there: fly into Turin or Milan and rent a car; the wine villages are hard to reach by public transport.
Plan ahead: fair weekends are busy in Alba, and top restaurants book up. Consider staying in a smaller village nearby.

Italy’s official tourism portal, Italia.it, has regional itineraries for Piedmont and beyond.

Autumn-colored vineyards on the hills of the Langhe in Piedmont, Italy — The Langhe hills in autumn, the heart of Piedmont's wine and white truffle season (Photo: Ida Astrid via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0)

5. Prague, Czech Republic: a fairytale city in autumn

Prague’s spires, bridges and hillside gardens look their best with a backdrop of autumn color, and October and November bring much thinner crowds on Charles Bridge and in the Old Town than summer does.

Why go: Prague Castle, the Old Town Square and its astronomical clock, Charles Bridge at dawn, the gardens and viewpoints of Petřín Hill, and the city’s beer halls and cafés as the evenings cool.
Value: the Czech Republic uses the koruna rather than the euro, and everyday costs remain lower than in many western capitals.
Combine it: Vienna, Berlin and Budapest are all reachable by train, making Prague a natural stop on a longer route.

The city’s official tourism site, Prague.eu, lists fall events and exhibitions.

6. Rome, Italy: warm days, fewer crowds

October is one of the best months of the year in Rome. The heat of summer has broken, evenings are pleasant for dining outdoors, and the lines at the Vatican Museums and Colosseum, while never short, are more manageable than in July.

Why go: the ancient sites in comfortable weather, fall food like artichokes and chestnuts, and day trips to the countryside for the grape and olive harvest.
Plan ahead: book timed entry for the Colosseum and the Vatican Museums, even in shoulder season.

Our guides to things to do in Rome, the best time to fly to Rome and getting around Rome cover the details. Compare flights to Rome and rooms in neighborhoods like Trastevere.

7. Paris, France: the city after the summer

Parisians call September the rentrée, when the city comes back from its August holidays and cultural life restarts. Fall brings new exhibitions, the gardens turning color, and the European Heritage Days in September, when many normally closed buildings open to the public.

Why go: museums and galleries at their best, café terraces in mild weather, and more reasonable hotel rates than in summer outside trade fairs and fashion weeks.
November: one of the quietest months, and a good time for museum-focused trips at lower prices.

See our guides to things to do in Paris and the best time to fly to Paris, then compare flights to Paris and Paris hotels.

8. London, England: theater season and autumn parks

London’s parks, from Hyde Park to Richmond Park, turn gold in October, and the city’s theater and concert calendar is in full swing. Weather is changeable, but many of the best things to do are indoors, and many of the major museums are free.

Why go: West End shows, free museums, autumn walks in the royal parks, and Bonfire Night fireworks around November 5.
Entry: visitors from Canada and the US need a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation before traveling.

Our guides to things to do in London, the best time to fly to London and getting around London help you plan, and you can compare flights to London for your dates.

9. Porto and the Douro Valley, Portugal: harvest time

The terraced vineyards of the Douro Valley, where port wine comes from, are one of Europe’s most spectacular wine landscapes, and the harvest usually runs from September into early October. Afterward, the vines turn red and gold.

Why go: quinta visits and tastings, river cruises and the scenic Douro railway line, then Porto’s riverside, tiled churches and port lodges.
Getting around: trains run up the valley from Porto; a car or a guided tour reaches more of the quintas.
Combine it: Lisbon is about three hours south by train.

The official site, Visit Portugal, has regional guides.

10. Seville and Granada, Spain: Andalusia without the heat

Andalusian summers are fierce. By October, the heat has eased into warm, sunny days that are perfect for exploring Seville’s cathedral and old quarters, and Granada’s Alhambra.

Why go: the Alhambra and the Albaicín in Granada, the Real Alcázar and tapas bars of Seville, and the white villages of the countryside.
Plan ahead: Alhambra tickets are limited and sell out well ahead, even in fall. Buy them from the official seller as soon as your dates are firm.

11. Dubrovnik and the Croatian coast: September sea

Croatia’s Dalmatian coast is packed in July and August. In September, the sea is still warm, the old towns of Dubrovnik and Split are calmer, and ferries and boat trips to the islands are still running.

Why go: Dubrovnik’s city walls, Split’s Roman palace, swimming off the rocks, and island trips to Hvar and Korčula.
Timing: as with the Greek islands, services thin out after October.

12. Vienna and Budapest: coffeehouses, baths and the first markets

Late fall is the season for Central Europe’s indoor pleasures: Vienna’s coffeehouses, concert halls and museums, and Budapest’s thermal baths, which feel best when the air outside is cold. The first Christmas markets usually open in mid to late November.

Why go: classical music and opera, grand cafés, the thermal baths, and lower prices before the holiday season starts.
Combine them: the two cities are connected by direct trains, and Prague is an easy extension.

If you would rather see holiday lights closer to home, our guide to the best cities for Christmas in the USA covers the North American options.

13. The Scottish Highlands: color and drama

The Highlands in September and October are a study in rust and purple, with heather and bracken on the hills and stags rutting in the glens. It is also a quieter time on roads that are busy in summer.

Why go: dramatic landscapes around Glencoe, the Isle of Skye and the Cairngorms, whisky distilleries, and Edinburgh’s old town as a gateway.
Be ready for weather: it changes fast, and daylight shortens quickly. Drive in daylight on single-track roads.

Autumn leaves on the wooded slopes of Petřín Hill in Prague — Petřín Hill in Prague, at its best in October's autumn color (Photo: I would appreciate being notified if you use my work outside Wikimedia.
More of my work can be found in my personal gallery. via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0)

Fall in Europe at a glance

Destination	Best fall window	Why go	Book ahead for
Munich	Late September to early October	Oktoberfest	Hotels, tent reservations
Transylvania	October	Castles, forests, Halloween	Rental car
Santorini and the Greek islands	September to early October	Warm sea, sunsets, fewer crowds	Ferries, caldera-view rooms
Piedmont	October to November	White truffles, wine	Fair-weekend rooms, restaurants
Prague	October	Autumn color, value	Little; flexible
Rome	October	Warm days, harvest food	Colosseum and Vatican entry
Paris	September to November	Exhibitions, heritage days	Rooms during trade fairs
London	October to November	Theater, parks, free museums	Show tickets, UK ETA
Porto and the Douro	September to October	Harvest, vineyards	Quinta stays, river cruises
Seville and Granada	October to November	Pleasant warmth	Alhambra tickets
Dubrovnik and Split	September	Swimming, old towns	Island ferries
Vienna and Budapest	November	Cafés, baths, first markets	Concert tickets
Scottish Highlands	September to October	Landscapes, whisky	Rental car, rural lodging

How to plan a fall trip to Europe

Flights

Fall fares from North America are often lower than summer fares, but not always on every route, so compare a full month rather than fixed dates. Consider flying into one city and home from another, for example into Munich for Oktoberfest and out of Rome after a week in Italy, to avoid backtracking. Our guide to traveling Europe on a multi-city itinerary covers routes, rail and open-jaw tickets, and our international flight booking tips cover bags and connections.

Where to stay

Outside event dates, fall is a good time to upgrade: rooms that are out of reach in summer often become affordable. Keep rates refundable if your route might change, and compare total prices including city taxes. Search rooms on our hotel search and read our hotel booking tips before you book.

Getting around

Trains cover the cities well. For wine regions, rural Transylvania and the Highlands, a rental car makes a huge difference; compare rates on our car rental search, and read our rental car booking tips for insurance and cross-border rules.

Entry rules

Canadian and US visitors can usually spend up to 90 days in any 180-day period in the Schengen area without a visa. The EU’s Entry/Exit System now registers non-EU travelers electronically at the external border, so allow extra time on your first entry, and an ETIAS travel authorization is due to follow. The UK requires an Electronic Travel Authorisation. Check the official requirements for your passport before you book.

Packing

Layers are everything: a light waterproof jacket, a warm sweater or fleece, and shoes that can handle rain and cobblestones. Bring a swimsuit for the south in September and for thermal baths later in the season. Our guide to comfortable walking shoes for traveling helps with the most important item.

Budget

Fall is one of the best times to stretch a travel budget in Europe. Our guide on how to save money for a trip includes a cost worksheet and a savings timeline, and if you are torn between the classic three countries, our comparison of England, Italy and France helps you decide.

The whitewashed village of Oia on the caldera cliffs of Santorini — Oia on Santorini: still warm in September and early October, with far fewer crowds than summer (Photo: Norbert Nagel via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0)

Fall travel mistakes to avoid

Arriving in Munich during Oktoberfest without a room. Book early or stay out of town.
Assuming islands are open all season. Check hotel, restaurant and ferry schedules from late October.
Packing for summer everywhere. A warm September day in Rome can be a chilly evening in Prague.
Planning long drives after dark. Days shorten fast, especially after the clock change.
Leaving popular timed tickets to the last minute. The Alhambra, the Vatican Museums and the Colosseum sell out even in shoulder season.
Ignoring trade fairs and events. A big conference can push city hotel rates to summer levels for a week.

Frequently asked questions

Is fall a good time to visit Europe?

For many travelers it is the best time: fewer crowds than summer, lower prices, warm weather in the south in September and October, harvest festivals and autumn colors. The trade-offs are shorter days and more rain in the north, especially in November.

Where is it still warm in Europe in October?

The south: southern Spain and Portugal, southern Italy and Sicily, Greece and its islands, Malta and Cyprus usually have warm days well into October.

When is Oktoberfest?

It traditionally begins on a Saturday in the second half of September and ends on the first Sunday of October, or on October 3 when that falls later. Check the official website for each year’s exact dates.

Is Europe cheaper in the fall?

Generally, yes. Hotel rates and transatlantic fares usually drop from mid-September, although major events, trade fairs and festival weekends can still push prices up in specific cities.

What is the best European city to visit in November?

Cities with great indoor life: Paris, London, Vienna, Budapest and Prague. November is one of the quietest and cheapest months, and the Christmas markets in Central Europe start to open late in the month.

Where can I see fall foliage in Europe?

Transylvania’s Carpathian forests, the Scottish Highlands, the Douro Valley’s vineyards, Piedmont’s hills, Bavaria and the parks of Prague and London all put on a strong show, usually peaking in October. If you are open to a longer trip, our guide to traveling to Japan covers another famous autumn-leaf destination.

Do I need anything new to enter Europe?

The EU’s Entry/Exit System registers non-EU visitors electronically at the border, an ETIAS travel authorization is due to follow, and the UK requires an ETA. Check the official requirements before you book.

Ready to plan your fall escape? Compare fares into Munich, Rome, Paris, London and Europe’s other gateways on our flight search, then find rooms that are finally affordable after the summer on our hotel search. For more ideas on where your money goes furthest, see our guide to budget travel destinations.

Keep planning with TicketScanner

Budget travel destinations: the best-value picks
How to travel Europe on a multi-city itinerary
England, Italy or France: how to choose
How to save money for a trip
Best cities for Christmas in the USA
Travel to Japan: planning a first trip
Compare flights to Europe — fall fares often ease after mid-September
Cheap flights to Rome
Best time to fly to Paris

October 12, 2023

7 Relaxing Vacations For Doing Absolutely Nothing

Most vacations are secretly work. There are museums to see, restaurants to book, trains to catch and a list of sights that somebody told you not to miss. Sometimes what you need is the opposite: a place where the most demanding decision of the day is whether to swim before or after lunch. A do-nothing vacation sounds easy to plan, but it is surprisingly easy to get wrong. Pick a destination with a punishing journey, a resort that is not quite right, or the wrong season, and you spend half the trip recovering from the travel and the other half fighting the weather. This guide covers seven destinations that are built for doing absolutely nothing, from the overwater villas of the Maldives to a quiet lakeside cabin at Lake Tahoe, and explains how to choose between them, when to go, how to get there from North America, and how to protect the one thing you are really paying for: rest.

The short answer

For pure, barefoot, nothing-to-do luxury, the Maldives, Bora Bora and the Seychelles are the classics: turquoise water, private villas and resorts designed so you never need to leave. For relaxation with culture and good value, Bali is hard to beat. For sunsets and slow days with a glass of wine, Santorini in late spring or early fall. For big scenery and fresh air, Queenstown in New Zealand. And if you want rest without a long-haul flight, Lake Tahoe delivers mountains, a clear lake and quiet cabins within reach of much of the West. Whichever you choose, the rules are the same: go in the right season, minimize connections and transfers, stay long enough to get over the journey, and book a place where you will not need a car. Start by comparing fares across a whole month on our flight search, then look at rooms on our hotel search.

A row of overwater villas above a turquoise lagoon in the Maldives — Overwater villas in the Maldives, where snorkeling means stepping off your deck (Photo: Martin Falbisoner via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0)

What makes a destination good for doing nothing

Not every beautiful place is restful. The best do-nothing destinations share a few traits, and it is worth checking a shortlist against them before you book.

1. The journey is manageable

A trip that takes two days each way eats into your rest. For a week off, a destination with one connection is more relaxing than a cheaper option with three. For very long journeys, such as the Maldives, Bali or French Polynesia from North America, plan on at least ten nights so the travel days do not dominate the trip. Our guide to booking international flights covers choosing connections and layovers.

2. You can stay put

A do-nothing vacation works best when everything you need is within walking distance: the beach, a pool, a couple of good restaurants and somewhere to buy sunscreen. On a private-island resort, that happens automatically. In a town, choose your base carefully so you are not driving every day.

3. The weather cooperates

Tropical destinations have wet seasons and, in some regions, cyclone or hurricane seasons. Mountain and Mediterranean destinations have shoulder seasons when prices fall but the weather is still good. Travel in the wrong month and you may still have a lovely time, but you will not be lying in a hammock every day.

4. There is nothing you “have to” see

This is the underrated one. In Paris or Rome, guilt drags you out of bed to see the sights. In the Maldives, the sight is the view from your deck. Choose a place where rest is the point, and nobody will ask what you did all week.

The seven destinations

1. The Maldives

The Maldives is the archetypal do-nothing destination: a chain of low coral atolls in the Indian Ocean, where many resorts occupy an entire island of their own. The classic stay is an overwater villa with steps down into the lagoon, where snorkeling means walking out your door and looking down.

Best time to go: the drier northeast monsoon season, roughly December to April, brings the calmest seas and most sunshine. May to November is wetter and windier, with lower prices; many travelers still find it worthwhile, especially for diving.
Getting there: international flights land at Velana International Airport near Malé, usually via hubs in the Middle East, Europe or Asia. From there, resorts are reached by speedboat, domestic flight or seaplane. Seaplanes fly only in daylight, so if you land late you may need a night near the airport before the transfer.
Budget reality: the Maldives is one of the most expensive destinations in the world, and on a private-island resort you pay resort prices for every meal and drink. Compare meal plans carefully; half-board, full-board or all-inclusive often works out cheaper than paying as you go. Transfers can also be a significant added cost.
Entry: the Maldives has historically granted visitors a free visa on arrival, and requires an online traveler declaration through its IMUGA portal before arrival. Confirm the current rules before you fly.

The official tourism site, Visit Maldives, lists the atolls and resort types.

2. Santorini, Greece

Santorini’s white villages cling to the rim of a volcanic caldera, with views over the flooded crater and some of the most famous sunsets in Europe. It is a place for long breakfasts on a terrace, afternoon swims in a cave pool and a glass of the island’s Assyrtiko wine at dusk.

Best time to go: May, early June, September and early October. July and August are hot, crowded and at peak prices, and cruise-ship days pack the village of Oia. Many hotels close in winter.
Getting there: fly to Athens, then take a short domestic flight or a ferry. In summer, some European cities have direct seasonal flights to the island. Our guide to traveling Europe on a multi-city itinerary explains how to combine flights and ferries.
How to actually relax: stay in Imerovigli or Firostefani for the caldera views without the Oia crowds, or on the quieter beach side of the island at Kamari or Perissa, where rooms cost less. Book a room with its own terrace; it becomes your living room.

The Greek National Tourism Organisation’s site, Visit Greece, covers Santorini and quieter islands such as Milos and Naxos. If you are also considering the mainland, our guide to the best places to visit in Europe in fall explains why September is so good in the Greek islands.

3. Bali, Indonesia

Bali offers a gentler, more affordable kind of relaxation: rice terraces, temples, yoga studios, spas and a food scene that ranges from roadside warungs to excellent restaurants. It is one of the few places on this list where a genuinely indulgent trip can be done on a moderate budget, since daily costs on the ground are low by North American standards.

Best time to go: the dry season, roughly April to October, is the most reliable. The wet season brings heavy tropical downpours, but often in short bursts, and fewer crowds.
Where to stay for rest: Ubud, in the hills, is the place for rice-field views, spas and yoga retreats. Sanur, on the east coast, is calm and family-friendly. Nusa Dua has large beach resorts. The busy southern areas, such as Kuta and Seminyak, are livelier and less restful.
Getting there: fly into Denpasar via an Asian hub. Traffic on the island can be slow, so pick a base and stay there, or split the trip between two bases rather than moving every couple of days.
Entry: Indonesia’s visa rules and Bali’s tourist levy apply to most international visitors and have changed in recent years; check the current requirements before you fly.

The official tourism site, Wonderful Indonesia, has regional guides. Bali is also one of the long-haul bargains in our pillar guide to budget travel destinations.

Green rice terraces stepping down a valley at Tegallalang near Ubud, Bali — The rice terraces near Ubud, Bali's hill-country base for spas, yoga and slow days (Photo: Philip Nalangan via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 4.0)

4. Queenstown, New Zealand

Queenstown is known as an adventure capital, with bungee jumping, jet boats and skiing, but it is also one of the most beautiful places in the world to sit still. The town sits on the shore of Lake Wakatipu beneath the Remarkables mountain range, and the surrounding region has vineyards, lakeside walks and some of New Zealand’s best scenery.

Best time to go: the Southern Hemisphere summer, December to February, brings long days and warm weather; March and April add autumn colors and calmer crowds. June to August is ski season.
How to do nothing here: skip the adrenaline. Stay in a lakeside apartment, take the gondola up for the view, have a long lunch at a winery in the Gibbston Valley, and take the short drive to the quieter towns of Arrowtown or Glenorchy.
Getting there: fly to Auckland or an Australian city, then connect to Queenstown. New Zealand requires most visitors, including Canadian and US citizens, to hold an electronic travel authority; see the official NZeTA page.

5. Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Bora Bora is the South Pacific of the postcards: a green volcanic peak surrounded by a turquoise lagoon and a ring of small islets, called motus, where most of the luxury resorts sit. Like the Maldives, it is a place for overwater bungalows, snorkeling and staying put.

Best time to go: the drier, cooler season runs roughly from May to October. November to April is warmer and more humid, with more rain.
Getting there: international flights land at Faa’a International Airport near Papeete, on Tahiti, with service from Los Angeles and San Francisco among other cities. From there, a domestic flight takes you to Bora Bora, followed by a boat transfer to your resort. See our LAX airport guide if you are connecting through Los Angeles.
Budget reality: Bora Bora is very expensive. To stretch the budget, consider splitting the trip with a less expensive island such as Moorea or Huahine, where you can have just as much quiet for less.

The official tourism board, Tahiti Tourisme, covers all the islands. For a Caribbean alternative with a shorter flight, see our Cayman Islands honeymoon guide.

6. The Seychelles

The Seychelles, an archipelago in the Indian Ocean off East Africa, has beaches that look unreal: white sand, clear water and giant granite boulders shaped by the sea. Anse Source d’Argent on La Digue is one of the most photographed beaches in the world, and La Digue itself is a quiet island where most people get around by bicycle.

Best time to go: the transition months between the trade-wind seasons, roughly April to May and October to November, usually bring the calmest seas and clearest water. The islands are warm year-round.
Getting there: fly into Mahé via a hub in the Middle East, Europe or Africa. Ferries connect Mahé with Praslin and La Digue, which are the best islands for a slow trip.
How to relax: spend a few nights on Praslin or La Digue rather than only on Mahé, rent a bicycle, and let the day revolve around the tide and the beach.
Entry: visitors must apply for a travel authorization online before arrival through the official Seychelles travel authorization portal.

Granite boulders and clear shallow water at Anse Source d'Argent beach on La Digue, Seychelles — Anse Source d'Argent on La Digue, one of the Seychelles' famous granite-boulder beaches (Photo: NorbertNagel via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0)

7. Lake Tahoe, California and Nevada

Lake Tahoe is proof that you do not need a passport to switch off. The lake is large, deep and famously clear, surrounded by pine forests and the peaks of the Sierra Nevada. In summer, it is a place for beaches, paddleboards and lakeside decks; in winter, cozy cabins, fireplaces and ski resorts.

Best time to go: June to September for lake days; December to March for snow; September and early October are quieter, with warm days and cool nights.
North shore or south shore: the north shore is generally quieter and more residential, with small beach towns. South Lake Tahoe is busier, with casinos just over the Nevada line and more nightlife. For a do-nothing trip, the north and west shores are usually the better fit.
Getting there: Reno-Tahoe International Airport is the closest major airport. Sacramento and San Francisco are longer drives but have more flights; compare flights to San Francisco and San Francisco car rentals. In winter, check road conditions and chain requirements before driving into the mountains.

The regional tourism site, Visit Lake Tahoe, covers lodging and seasonal activities. If you are heading into the mountains, our guide to America’s most unique state parks includes other scenic escapes in the West.

Emerald Bay and the clear blue water of Lake Tahoe surrounded by pine-covered mountains — Emerald Bay on Lake Tahoe: mountain calm without a passport for US travelers (Photo: Eric Philbin via Wikimedia Commons, CC0)

Compare the seven at a glance

Destination	Best months	Journey from North America	Relative cost	Best for
Maldives	December to April	Very long; one or two connections plus a resort transfer	Very high	Overwater villas, snorkeling, total seclusion
Santorini	May to June, September to early October	Long; usually via Athens or another European city	High in summer, moderate in shoulder season	Sunsets, wine, terraces
Bali	April to October	Very long; one or two connections	Low to moderate on the ground	Spas, yoga, rice fields, value
Queenstown	December to April; June to August for ski	Very long; usually via Auckland or Australia	Moderate to high	Scenery, wine, fresh air
Bora Bora	May to October	Long; via Papeete from the US West Coast	Very high	Lagoon views, honeymoons
Seychelles	April to May, October to November	Very long; one or two connections	High	Beaches, island-hopping by ferry
Lake Tahoe	June to September; December to March	Short from the West; drive from Reno or the Bay Area	Moderate to high in peak season	Cabins, lake days, no passport needed

Closer to home: easy do-nothing trips from Canada and the US

If a week off does not justify a long-haul flight, look closer. From most of Canada and the eastern United States, the Caribbean and Mexico offer beaches and resorts within one flight. Cancún and the Riviera Maya are among the easiest: frequent nonstop flights, a huge range of all-inclusive resorts, and a hotel zone where you can walk to the beach. See our guide to things to do in Cancún, the best time to fly to Cancún, and hotels in the Hotel Zone. For Canadians, our pages for flights from Toronto and from Vancouver are the quickest way to see where nonstops go.

Even a city can be restful if you plan it that way. A few quiet days in a spa hotel, with one museum and a long dinner, is its own kind of doing nothing, but for real rest, water and nature win.

How to plan a trip where you really switch off

Choose the right kind of stay

Stay type	Why it helps you relax	Watch out for
All-inclusive resort	No decisions about meals or money; everything is on site	Food variety on longer stays; what is excluded (premium drinks, spa, some restaurants)
Private-island resort	Total seclusion; the view is the entertainment	High meal and transfer costs; limited choice if you do not like the resort
Villa or apartment	Space, privacy and a kitchen; good for families and long stays	You may need a car; you do the shopping and some of the work
Small boutique hotel	Personal service, character, often in walkable towns	Fewer facilities; check noise and stairs

Our hotel booking tips explain how to compare what is included, cancellation terms and location, which matter more than star ratings for a restful stay.

Protect the first and last days

Book flights that land in daylight when you can, so you are not navigating a transfer at midnight. On the way home, leave a buffer day before going back to work. Nothing undoes a relaxing week faster than landing on Sunday night and walking into a Monday meeting.

Make the flight easier

Long-haul flights are the cost of admission for most of these places, so make them as comfortable as you can: choose your seat early, bring a good neck pillow and noise-canceling headphones, and stay hydrated. Our guides to sleeping well on flights, airplane neck pillows and compression socks for long flights cover the details. If you want to treat yourself on the longest leg, see our business class upgrade tips.

Set up a real digital detox

Turn on an out-of-office reply with a clear return date, remove work email from your phone for the week, and agree in advance on the one way people can reach you in an emergency. Many travelers find that the first two or three days are the hardest; after that, the habit of checking fades.

Stay long enough

For a long-haul destination, jet lag alone can take several days to shake off. Ten nights or more is ideal for the Maldives, Bali, the Seychelles, Bora Bora or Queenstown. For closer destinations like Lake Tahoe or the Caribbean, a long weekend can be enough, although a full week is better.

Budgeting for a do-nothing trip

A relaxing trip does not have to be a luxury trip, but several of these destinations are expensive, and the costs are not always obvious at first glance.

Price the whole trip, not the room. On island resorts, add meals, drinks, transfers and taxes. A cheaper room with an expensive seaplane transfer and pay-as-you-go meals can cost more than a pricier all-inclusive package.
Travel in the shoulder season. The weeks just before and after peak season bring lower prices with weather that is usually still good.
Mix a splurge with a saver. Spend a few nights in an overwater villa and the rest in a beach room, or pair Bora Bora with Moorea.
Be flexible with dates. A few days’ shift can change the fare significantly, especially on long-haul routes.
Save in advance. Our guide on how to save money for a trip helps turn a dream destination into a date on the calendar.

Safety, health and entry rules

Check the official advisory for your destination before booking and again before departure. Canadians should use the Government of Canada travel advice and advisories; US citizens should check the State Department travel advisories.
Confirm entry requirements. Several destinations on this list require an online authorization, declaration or visa before arrival, and the rules change. The official government sites are the only reliable sources.
Buy travel insurance with medical and evacuation coverage. Remote islands may have limited medical facilities, and evacuation is expensive.
Respect the sun and the sea. Tropical sun is strong, and currents can be dangerous even on calm-looking beaches. Swim where locals and resort staff advise, and use reef-safe sunscreen where it is required or encouraged.

Frequently asked questions

What is the most relaxing vacation destination?

For total seclusion, a private-island resort in the Maldives or Bora Bora is hard to beat, because there is nothing to do but rest. For a more affordable option with culture and spas, Bali is excellent. Closer to home, a cabin at Lake Tahoe or an all-inclusive resort in the Caribbean or Mexico can be just as restful.

How long should a relaxing vacation be?

For destinations with long flights and big time differences, aim for ten nights or more so you have time to recover from the journey. For closer destinations, a week works well, and a long weekend can help if that is all you have.

Is an all-inclusive resort good for a do-nothing trip?

Often, yes. Having meals and drinks included removes daily decisions and budgeting. Check what is excluded, such as premium drinks, à la carte restaurants or spa treatments, and read recent reviews for food quality.

When is the best time to visit the Maldives?

The drier season, roughly December to April, has the calmest seas and most sunshine. The wetter months, roughly May to November, bring lower prices and more rain, but many days are still sunny.

What is a good relaxing vacation without a long flight?

From Canada and the northern US, Cancún and the Caribbean offer beaches within one flight. In the West, Lake Tahoe is an easy drive from Reno or the Bay Area.

How do I actually relax on vacation?

Choose a destination where there is nothing you feel obligated to see, stay in one place, set up an out-of-office reply, and leave a buffer day before going back to work. Plan no more than one activity per day.

Are relaxing vacations expensive?

They can be, especially in the Maldives, Bora Bora and the Seychelles. Bali, Mexico and shoulder-season Santorini offer much better value, and traveling outside peak season lowers the cost almost everywhere.

More guides in this series

This article is part of our destinations and planning series. Start with the pillar guide to budget travel destinations, then see the best cities for Christmas in the USA if you want the opposite of a quiet holiday, our guide to traveling to Japan, New York on a budget, and our guide to planning and booking a trip on TicketScanner.

Ready to do absolutely nothing? Compare fares across a whole month on our flight search to find the dates that work, then choose a room with a view on our hotel search. If you want a beach within one flight, start with our Cancún flights page.

Keep planning with TicketScanner

Budget travel destinations: the best-value picks
A honeymoon in the Cayman Islands
Best places to visit in Europe in fall
How to save money for a trip
Travel to Japan: planning a first trip
Best cities for Christmas in the USA
Compare flights — search a whole month of fares to find the best dates
Compare hotel prices
Things to do in Cancún
Best time to fly to Cancún

October 7, 2023

Vacationing in New York: Your Complete Guide to Cheap Flights, Hotels, and Car Rentals

New York has a reputation as one of the most expensive cities in the world, and some of that reputation is earned. Hotel rooms in Manhattan can cost more per night than a week of groceries, a cocktail in a rooftop bar can cost as much as a meal elsewhere, and a careless week of taxis and tourist-trap restaurants adds up fast. But New York is also full of things that cost very little or nothing at all: a free ferry past the Statue of Liberty, the best people-watching on the planet, some of the world’s great parks, a walk across the Brooklyn Bridge, and a subway that takes you almost anywhere for a single fare. The difference between an expensive New York trip and an affordable one is rarely luck. It comes down to when you go, where you sleep, how you get around and what you choose to pay for. This guide covers all four, from cheap flights to New York and cheap hotels to the free sights, the neighborhoods where food is good value, and the car question (the short answer is do not rent one).

The short answer

To do New York on a budget, travel in January or February after the New Year week, or in the shoulder weeks of late April to early June and early November, when rooms are cheaper than in the fall and holiday peaks. Compare all three airports: JFK, LaGuardia and Newark often price very differently. Stay a subway ride from Midtown, in places like Long Island City, Downtown Brooklyn or across the river in Jersey City, rather than steps from Times Square. Never rent a car for a city stay. Build the trip around free experiences, and spend on the one or two things that matter most to you, whether that is a Broadway show, a great restaurant or the view from an observation deck. Start by comparing a whole month of fares on our New York flights page, then compare neighborhoods on New York hotels.

The Lower Manhattan skyline seen across the harbor from the Staten Island Ferry — The free Staten Island Ferry gives one of the best skyline views in New York (Photo: Jakub Hałun via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 4.0)

Why New York is worth it, even on a budget

There are cheaper cities, but very few give you as much for free. The Statue of Liberty from the water, the skyline from Brooklyn, the architecture of Midtown, the parks, the street life in dozens of distinct neighborhoods, the food of every culture on earth: most of what makes New York special costs nothing to experience. The expensive parts are optional, and with a little planning you can decide which ones are worth it. For a full list of sights and neighborhoods, see our guide to things to do in New York.

When to go for the lowest prices

In New York, the hotel is almost always the biggest part of the bill, and hotel prices follow the city’s calendar more than the weather. Timing your trip is the single biggest saving you can make.

Period	Hotel prices	Weather	Budget verdict
January to February (after New Year)	Lowest of the year	Cold, sometimes snowy	Best value; Restaurant Week and Broadway Week discounts often run in this period
March	Low to moderate	Cool, changeable	Good value, especially midweek
Late April to early June	Moderate	Mild, parks at their best	Best balance of weather and price
Late June to August	Moderate to high	Hot and humid	Busy with international visitors; many free outdoor events
September to October	Highest outside the holidays	The best weather of the year	Expensive, especially during the UN General Assembly in late September
Early November	Moderate	Cool, crisp	A good-value window before the holidays
Thanksgiving to New Year	Very high, peaking in mid-December	Cold	Magical but pricey; go early in December for the best rates

Our guide to the best time to fly to New York covers each month in more detail, including the events that push prices up. If you want the holiday experience anyway, our guide to the best cities for Christmas in the USA explains how to time it.

How to find cheap flights to New York

Compare all three airports

New York has three major airports, and fares can differ significantly between them for the same dates:

John F. Kennedy International (JFK) in Queens handles most long-haul and many domestic flights. The AirTrain connects to the subway and the Long Island Rail Road. See our JFK airport guide.
LaGuardia (LGA), also in Queens, is the closest to Midtown and mostly domestic, with many flights from Canada. It has no rail link, but public buses connect it to the subway.
Newark Liberty (EWR), in New Jersey, is often competitive on price. The AirTrain connects to New Jersey Transit and Amtrak trains into Penn Station in Midtown.

Search “New York” as a city rather than a single airport so you see all three at once, then compare the total cost including getting into the city. A cheaper fare into an airport with a long, expensive ride can end up costing more.

Be flexible on dates

Fares can change noticeably between neighboring days. Midweek flights are often cheaper than Friday and Sunday departures, and moving a trip by a day or two can make a real difference. Our guide to the best time to book cheap flights and hotels explains how far ahead to look.

Watch the extras

Low-cost fares often exclude a carry-on bag, a checked bag or seat selection. Add those up before choosing the cheapest headline fare. Our guide to booking cheap domestic flights in the US covers the common traps.

Flying from Canada

New York is one of the easiest international trips from Canada, with frequent flights from Toronto, Montreal and Ottawa. Our pages for flights from Toronto and from Montreal show the routes, and our guide to flights between New York and Toronto covers that corridor in detail. Remember that US border preclearance at several major Canadian airports means you clear US immigration before departure, so allow extra time at the airport.

Consider the train or bus

From Boston, Philadelphia and Washington, DC, trains and intercity buses can be cheaper and more convenient than flying, since they arrive in the middle of Manhattan. Compare them with the total cost of a flight plus airport transfers.

How to find a cheap hotel in New York

Accommodation is where most New York budgets break. These strategies help.

Stay one subway stop outside the obvious

Midtown and Times Square are convenient for first-timers, but you pay a premium for the location. The subway runs around the clock, so a hotel a few stops away can be just as practical at a lower price.

Area	Why it can save money	Trade-offs
Long Island City, Queens	One or two subway stops from Midtown, with newer hotels and skyline views	Quieter at night; fewer sights on the doorstep
Downtown Brooklyn	Many subway lines, easy access to Lower Manhattan and Brooklyn’s best neighborhoods	Longer ride to the Upper West Side and Upper East Side
Jersey City and Hoboken	Across the Hudson, with PATH trains to Manhattan and views of the skyline	PATH is a separate system; check late-night service
Upper Manhattan	Often lower rates than Midtown; close to Central Park and museums	Longer ride downtown
Midtown (Times Square area)	Walk to theaters and many sights; saves on transit	Usually the most expensive; busy and noisy

If you do want to be in the middle of it, our guide to hotels around Times Square covers the trade-offs of staying there.

Compare the full price

New York hotels add sizable taxes to the nightly rate, and some add “destination” or “facility” fees. Compare the final total each provider shows at checkout, not the headline rate. Our hotel booking tips explain what to look for.

Accept a small room

New York hotel rooms are small by North American standards. If you will only be sleeping there, a compact room in a good location is often the smartest choice.

Book refundable, then keep watching

Reserve a refundable rate once your dates are fixed, then keep checking. Rates move with demand, and if a lower price appears, you can switch. If your plans are last minute, our guide to last-minute hotel booking helps.

Be careful with short-term rentals

New York strictly limits short-term apartment rentals, so options are much narrower than in many other cities. Check that a listing is legal and properly registered before you book.

Getting around cheaply: skip the car

New York is the one American city where a car is a liability for a visitor. Driving is slow, parking is scarce and expensive, and most of Manhattan south of Central Park sits inside a congestion toll zone. The subway, buses, ferries and your own feet are cheaper and usually faster.

Subway and buses: tap a contactless card or phone at the turnstile using the OMNY system. OMNY’s fare cap works in your favor: according to the official OMNY site, once you tap the same card or device for 12 trips within seven days, the rest of the week’s rides are free. Use one card or phone for all your rides to benefit.
Staten Island Ferry: the City of New York runs the Staten Island Ferry as a free service between Lower Manhattan and Staten Island, passing close to the Statue of Liberty with a superb view of the skyline.
Walking: Manhattan is a grid north of about 14th Street, and neighborhoods like the Village, SoHo and Chinatown are best explored on foot.
Bike share: Citi Bike can be convenient for short trips in good weather, particularly along the waterfront greenways.

Our guide to car rental versus public transit in New York covers the whole system in detail, including when a car does make sense, such as for a day trip to the Hudson Valley or the beaches of Long Island. If you need one for a day or two, compare options on our car rental search and pick it up the morning you leave the city.

A subway train pulling into a station platform in New York City — The subway runs around the clock and is the cheapest way to get around New York (Photo: Martin David martindavid via Wikimedia Commons, CC0)

The best free and cheap things to do

Some of New York’s greatest experiences cost nothing. Build your days around these and save your money for a couple of splurges.

Free

Ride the Staten Island Ferry for the classic harbor view of the Statue of Liberty and the skyline.
Walk the Brooklyn Bridge, ideally from Brooklyn toward Manhattan so the skyline is in front of you, then explore DUMBO and Brooklyn Bridge Park.
Explore Central Park: Bethesda Terrace, Bow Bridge, the Mall, Strawberry Fields and the Reservoir.
Walk the High Line, a public park built on an old elevated rail line on the West Side; the official High Line site lists hours and free events.
Visit the 9/11 Memorial: the memorial plaza and its reflecting pools are free to visit; the museum requires a ticket. See the official 9/11 Memorial site.
See Grand Central Terminal, the New York Public Library’s main branch on Fifth Avenue, and St. Patrick’s Cathedral.
People-watch in Times Square after dark, then walk down to Bryant Park.
Wander the neighborhoods: Greenwich Village, SoHo, Chinatown, the Lower East Side, Harlem and Williamsburg each feel like a different city.

Cheap or worth paying for

Museums: several major museums offer free or pay-what-you-wish admission at certain times or for certain visitors, and the rules differ by museum and change occasionally. Check each museum’s official site before you go, and pick the one or two museums you care about most rather than trying to see them all.
Broadway on a budget: the TKTS booths run by the nonprofit Theatre Development Fund sell same-day discounted tickets for many shows; see TKTS by TDF. Many shows also run digital lotteries and rush tickets. Browse upcoming shows, games and concerts on events in New York.
The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island: if you want to set foot on Liberty Island, book through the official concessionaire linked from the National Park Service’s Statue of Liberty page, and be wary of street sellers.
Observation decks: they are expensive, so choose one. Alternatively, get a free skyline view from the Brooklyn waterfront or the Staten Island Ferry.
Governors Island: a short ferry ride from Lower Manhattan, with lawns, hammocks and harbor views; check the season and ferry schedule on the official Governors Island site.

Bow Bridge crossing the Lake in Central Park with trees and Manhattan buildings behind — Bow Bridge in Central Park, one of the city's best free experiences (Photo: Jakub Hałun via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 4.0)

Eating well for less

New York is one of the best cities in the world for cheap food, as long as you avoid the tourist traps around the major sights.

Go classic: a slice of pizza, a bagel, a hot dog from a cart and a halal platter from a street vendor are New York institutions that cost little.
Head to the neighborhoods: Chinatown, Flushing in Queens, Jackson Heights and Sunset Park in Brooklyn have outstanding food at neighborhood prices.
Use food halls and delis: good for quick meals, variety and groups with different tastes.
Make lunch your big meal: many restaurants offer lunch menus that cost less than dinner.
Watch for Restaurant Week: the city’s Restaurant Week promotions offer set menus at participating restaurants, typically in winter and summer.
Tip and tax: sales tax is added at the register, and tipping around 18 to 20 percent is expected in sit-down restaurants. Budget for both.

A sample three-day budget itinerary

Day 1: Lower Manhattan and Brooklyn

Start with the Staten Island Ferry for the harbor view, then walk through the Financial District to the 9/11 Memorial. After lunch in Chinatown, walk across the Brooklyn Bridge to DUMBO and spend the late afternoon in Brooklyn Bridge Park as the skyline lights up.

Day 2: Midtown and Central Park

See Grand Central Terminal, the New York Public Library and Bryant Park, then walk up Fifth Avenue to Central Park. Spend the afternoon in the park or at one museum. In the evening, try the TKTS booth for a same-day show, or see Times Square lit up after dark.

The Brooklyn Bridge and Lower Manhattan seen from the Brooklyn Heights Promenade — Walking the Brooklyn Bridge and the Brooklyn waterfront costs nothing (Photo: Abzeronow via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 4.0)

Day 3: The West Side and the neighborhoods

Walk the High Line from the Meatpacking District, explore Chelsea Market, then wander through Greenwich Village and SoHo. In the evening, take the subway to Queens or Brooklyn for dinner in a neighborhood known for its food.

For a longer stay, add a day trip. The things to do in New York guide lists day trips that are easy by train.

Getting from the airport for less

The ride into the city is where many visitors overspend on day one. From JFK, the AirTrain connects to the subway at Jamaica and Howard Beach, and to the Long Island Rail Road at Jamaica for a faster ride to Penn Station or Grand Central Madison. From Newark, the AirTrain links to New Jersey Transit and Amtrak trains into Penn Station. From LaGuardia, public buses run to subway stations in Queens and Upper Manhattan. Official options and current details are on each airport’s site, including the JFK airport site. A taxi or ride-hail can make sense for a family with luggage arriving late at night, but for a solo traveler or couple, transit is far cheaper and often just as quick in rush-hour traffic.

Your New York budget checklist

Pick dates in a low or shoulder period, and check for big events or conventions before you book.
Search all three airports and compare the total cost, including bags and the ride into the city.
Book a refundable room a subway ride from Midtown, comparing the final price with taxes and fees.
Use one contactless card or phone for every subway and bus ride so the weekly fare cap works for you.
Plan each day around free sights, and choose one or two paid experiences that matter most.
Eat your big meal at lunch, and head to neighborhoods like Chinatown or Flushing for dinner.
Buy show, ferry and statue tickets only from official sources.

Budget traps to avoid

Renting a car for a city stay. Parking, tolls and traffic make it far more expensive than transit.
Eating right next to the big sights. Walk a few blocks away for better food at lower prices.
Buying “discount” tickets from street sellers. Buy ferry, statue and show tickets from official sources.
Taking taxis from the airport by default. Public transit from JFK and Newark is much cheaper, and buses link LaGuardia with the subway.
Visiting in peak weeks without checking prices. A trip in mid-December or late September can cost far more than the same trip in January or early November.
Ignoring taxes and fees. Hotel taxes and fees, sales tax and tips all add up; budget for them from the start.
Trying to see everything. Paying for five attractions in three days is expensive and exhausting. Choose one or two, and fill the rest with free experiences.

Frequently asked questions

What is the cheapest month to visit New York?

January and February, after the New Year week, are usually the cheapest months for hotels and often for flights. It is cold, but the city’s museums, theaters and restaurants are all open, and seasonal promotions like Restaurant Week and Broadway Week often run in this period.

Which New York airport is cheapest to fly into?

It depends on your route and dates. JFK, LaGuardia and Newark often price differently, so search all three and compare the total cost including the trip into the city.

Where should I stay in New York on a budget?

Consider Long Island City, Downtown Brooklyn, Jersey City or Upper Manhattan, which are often cheaper than Midtown and have good transit links. Always compare the total price including taxes and fees.

Do I need a car in New York?

No. The subway, buses, ferries and walking cover everything a visitor needs, and driving and parking are expensive. Rent a car only for day trips outside the city.

What can I do in New York for free?

Ride the Staten Island Ferry, walk the Brooklyn Bridge and the High Line, explore Central Park, visit the 9/11 Memorial plaza, see Grand Central Terminal and wander neighborhoods like Greenwich Village, Chinatown and Williamsburg.

How can I see a Broadway show cheaply?

Try the TKTS booths for same-day discounted tickets, enter digital lotteries, or look for rush tickets. Weeknight performances and newer shows are often easier to get.

How many days do I need in New York?

Three full days cover the highlights; four or five let you explore Brooklyn, Queens and a museum or two without rushing. A longer stay also spreads the cost of the flight over more days.

More guides in this series

This article is part of our destinations and planning series. Start with the pillar guide to budget travel destinations for more places where your money goes further, then read our guide on how to save money for a trip, the best cities for Christmas in the USA, seven relaxing vacations for doing absolutely nothing, and our guide to planning and booking a trip on TicketScanner.

Ready to plan an affordable New York trip? Compare fares into JFK, LaGuardia and Newark across a whole month on our New York flights page, then find a well-connected room on New York hotels. For the full list of sights, see our guide to things to do in New York.

Keep planning with TicketScanner

Budget travel destinations: the best-value picks
How to save money for a trip
Best cities for Christmas in the USA
Seven relaxing vacations for doing absolutely nothing
How to plan and book a trip on TicketScanner
Cheap flights to New York — compare JFK, LaGuardia and Newark across the month
New York hotels
Things to do in New York
Best time to fly to New York
New York: rent a car or use transit?

October 2, 2023

Choosing England, Italy, and France for a Single, Unforgettable European Vacation

England, France and Italy are the three countries most North Americans picture when they first imagine a trip to Europe, and for good reason. Between them they hold London’s museums and theaters, Paris’s boulevards and galleries, Rome’s ancient ruins, the Renaissance art of Florence, the canals of Venice, the vineyards of Bordeaux and Tuscany, and some of the most famous food in the world. The question most travelers face is not whether these countries are worth it, but how to handle them: pick one and go deep, pair two, or try to see all three in a single vacation. Each approach works, but only if the length of the trip, the route and the season match what you actually want from it. This guide explains what each country does best, how to choose between them, how to combine them without spending half your vacation in transit, and how to plan the flights, trains, rooms and paperwork so the trip runs smoothly.

The short answer

If you have a week or less, choose one country, or at most two cities that are connected by a fast train, such as London and Paris. If you have ten days to two weeks, combining two countries is comfortable and all three is possible if you limit yourself to one base in each: London, Paris and Rome. If you have three weeks, you can add a second base in Italy or France, such as Florence or Provence. Fly into one city and home from another so you never backtrack, take the Eurostar between London and Paris, and fly between Paris and Rome unless you have a full day to spend on the train. Remember that the UK and the EU have separate entry rules: most visitors from Canada and the United States need a UK electronic travel authorization before flying to Britain. Compare fares into London, Paris and Rome on our flight search to see which open-jaw combination is cheapest for your dates.

The Palace of Westminster and Westminster Bridge on the River Thames in London — The Palace of Westminster in London, the classic first stop on a trip that combines England, France and Italy (Photo: Julian Herzog (Website) via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 4.0)

How the three countries compare

All three have world-class sights, so the real differences come down to pace, food, getting around and what kind of days you enjoy.

Factor	England	France	Italy
Best for	Museums, theater, royal history, countryside villages	Art, food and wine, elegant cities, varied regions	Ancient history, Renaissance art, food, coast and hill towns
Signature city	London	Paris	Rome
Language	English	French; English common in tourist areas	Italian; English common in tourist areas
Currency	Pound sterling	Euro	Euro
Getting around	Dense rail network; driving on the left	Fast TGV network radiating from Paris	Fast trains on the main north-south line; slower regional routes
Pace	Brisk, organized, easy for first-timers	Relaxed meals, busy capital	Lively, sometimes chaotic, long lunches
Best months	May to September	April to June, September to October	April to June, September to October
Entry for most North Americans	UK ETA required before travel	Schengen area rules	Schengen area rules

England: what it does best

England is the easiest of the three for a first trip abroad. There is no language barrier, the public transport is well signposted, and London alone can fill a week without repeating itself.

London

The original version of this guide started in London, and that still makes sense. The essentials are Buckingham Palace and the Changing of the Guard, the British Museum, the Tower of London and the Crown Jewels, Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament, and a walk along the South Bank from the London Eye to Tower Bridge. Many of the city’s major museums, including the British Museum, the National Gallery, the Natural History Museum and Tate Modern, have free general admission, which offsets London’s high hotel prices. The State Rooms at Buckingham Palace open to visitors only for part of the year, mainly in summer, so check before you plan around them. Evenings are for the West End theaters, historic pubs and the city’s enormous restaurant scene.

Our guide to things to do in London goes neighborhood by neighborhood, the best time to fly to London explains when fares and crowds ease, and our guide to getting around London covers the Underground, contactless payment and airport transfers. Most transatlantic flights land at London Heathrow, which is connected to central London by the Underground and faster rail links.

Beyond London

England rewards a few days outside the capital. Bath has Roman baths and Georgian crescents; Oxford and Cambridge have their colleges; the Cotswolds are a string of honey-colored stone villages; York has a medieval wall and a great cathedral; and Stonehenge sits on Salisbury Plain, an easy day trip by tour or rental car. Trains from London reach Bath, Oxford, Cambridge and York comfortably in a day trip or an overnight. For the Cotswolds and the countryside, a car helps, but remember that Britain drives on the left and village roads are narrow.

VisitBritain, the national tourism agency, has regional guides and itinerary ideas for England, Scotland and Wales.

France: what it does best

France combines the most famous city on the continent with a countryside that changes completely from region to region: châteaux on the Loire, D-Day beaches and Mont-Saint-Michel in Normandy, lavender fields in Provence, glamour on the Riviera, and wine country around Bordeaux and in Burgundy.

Paris

Paris is the obvious anchor. The original itinerary listed the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre and Notre-Dame Cathedral, and all three still belong on a first visit; Notre-Dame reopened to visitors after the long restoration that followed the 2019 fire. Add the Musée d’Orsay for Impressionist art, Sainte-Chapelle’s stained glass, Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur, a walk through the Marais, and an evening along the Seine. Book timed tickets for the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower in advance, especially in summer; the Louvre’s official website is the place to reserve and to check opening days.

Plan with our guides to things to do in Paris, the best time to fly to Paris and getting around Paris, which explains why the metro beats a car in the city. Compare Paris hotels, including central, walkable areas like Le Marais. Most long-haul flights arrive at Paris Charles de Gaulle, northeast of the city.

Beyond Paris

France’s high-speed TGV network makes it easy to add a region. The Loire Valley châteaux are close enough for a day trip or a night away; Normandy’s beaches and Mont-Saint-Michel work best as a two- or three-day loop; Lyon is France’s great food city; and Provence and the Riviera are a few hours south by fast train, where a rental car opens up the hill villages. Versailles, the royal palace just outside Paris, is reached by suburban train and deserves most of a day. France.fr, the official tourism site, covers every region, and train tickets can be booked through SNCF Connect, the national rail operator’s booking platform.

The Eiffel Tower seen across the Trocadéro gardens in Paris — The Eiffel Tower from the Trocadéro: book timed tickets ahead in busy months (Photo: NonOmnisMoriar via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0)

Italy: what it does best

Italy packs more famous art and history into a small area than almost anywhere else, and it adds some of the best food on earth and a coastline that ranges from the Amalfi cliffs to the villages of the Cinque Terre.

Rome

Rome was the second stop in the original itinerary, and the essentials have not changed: the Colosseum, the Roman Forum and the Palatine Hill, the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps, and Vatican City, where the Vatican Museums lead to the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica. Reserve timed entry for the Colosseum and the Vatican Museums well ahead in busy months, since walk-up availability is limited. Churches, including St. Peter’s, expect covered shoulders and knees, so carry a light scarf or layer.

Our guides to things to do in Rome, the best time to fly to Rome and getting around Rome cover the details, including the limited traffic zones that make driving in the historic center a bad idea. Compare Rome hotels, including neighborhoods such as Trastevere, and look at car rentals in Rome only for trips out into the countryside. Most transatlantic flights arrive at Rome Fiumicino, which has a direct train into the city.

Beyond Rome

Italy’s high-speed trains run the length of the main north-south line, which makes a classic route easy: Venice, Florence and Rome are each a couple of hours apart or less by fast train. Florence has the Uffizi Gallery, Michelangelo’s David and the cathedral dome; Venice has its canals, St. Mark’s Basilica and the islands of the lagoon; Tuscany’s hill towns, Siena and the Chianti vineyards are best explored by car. South of Rome, Naples is the gateway to Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast. Venice charges day-trippers an access fee on its busiest days, so check the city’s rules if you plan a day visit rather than an overnight stay. Italia.it, the official tourism portal, has regional itineraries, and Trenitalia, the national rail operator, sells tickets for the fast and regional trains.

How to choose: match the country to the traveler

First trip to Europe

England, or England plus Paris. The shared language takes the stress out of the first days, and the Eurostar puts Paris a short train ride away. You get two great capitals with very different personalities and only one transfer.

Food and wine lovers

Italy or France, and ideally both. Italy wins on regional variety and casual eating: pizza in Naples, pasta in Rome, steak in Florence, risotto in the north. France wins on markets, bakeries, cheese and wine regions. If food is the point, spend less time in capitals and more in places like Bologna, Lyon, Tuscany or Burgundy.

History and art

Italy for the ancient world and the Renaissance, France for the great museums and royal palaces, England for medieval and royal history. Any of the three works, which is why so many history-minded travelers try to combine them.

Couples and honeymooners

Paris and the Italian coast or hill towns are the classic romantic pairing: a few days of museums and dinners in Paris, then slow days in Tuscany, on the Amalfi Coast or by one of the northern lakes. If you want warm water and no itinerary at all, our Cayman Islands honeymoon guide offers the opposite kind of trip.

Travelers on a budget

None of the three is cheap, but you can control the cost. Travel in the shoulder season, stay a few metro stops from the landmarks, use free museums in London and free-entry days at some state museums in Paris and Rome, and eat your main meal at lunch. Our guide to budget travel destinations explains how to make these expensive favorites more affordable, and our guide on how to save money for a trip helps you build the fund.

Can you see all three in one vacation?

Yes, and many travelers do. The trick is to limit the number of bases, not the number of days. Each move between hotels costs you roughly half a day once you count packing, checking out, getting to the station or airport, traveling and checking in. Three bases in two weeks is relaxed; five bases in ten days is a blur.

Getting between the three

Leg	Best option	Why
London to Paris	Eurostar train	City center to city center in roughly two and a half hours, with no airport transfers
Paris to Rome	Flight	About two hours in the air; the train takes most of a day with a change in northern Italy
London to Rome	Flight	Frequent flights from several London airports
Rome to Florence	High-speed train	Well under two hours on the fastest services
Florence to Venice	High-speed train	Roughly two hours
Paris to the Loire, Lyon or Provence	TGV train	Fast, frequent and central

The Eurostar runs from London St Pancras to Paris Gare du Nord through the Channel Tunnel. You go through UK and French border checks at the departure station before boarding, so arrive with time to spare. Book early for the best fares, since prices tend to rise as trains fill.

Eurostar high-speed trains at the platforms of London St Pancras International station — Eurostar trains at London St Pancras link England and France city center to city center (Photo: Someone Not Awful via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0)

Sample itineraries

Ten days, all three countries. Fly into London and spend three nights, take the Eurostar to Paris for three nights, then fly to Rome for three nights and fly home from Rome. This is the original version of this itinerary, and it works if you accept that you will see the highlights of each city rather than the countryside.

Two weeks, all three countries. London for four nights with a day trip to Bath, Oxford or Windsor; Paris for four nights with a day at Versailles; then Florence for two nights and Rome for three, flying home from Rome. The Paris to Florence leg is usually a flight, and Florence to Rome is a short train ride.

Two weeks, two countries. Paris for four nights, then Provence or the Riviera for three by fast train, then fly to Rome for four nights and add two in Florence or on the Amalfi Coast. Dropping England buys you time outside the capitals.

Three weeks, all three countries. London and a few nights in the English countryside, Paris and one French region, then Venice, Florence and Rome by train before flying home from Rome. At this length you can include slower days and still see all three at a comfortable pace.

Our guide to traveling Europe on a multi-city itinerary covers how to sequence cities, when to take the train and when to fly, and how to handle luggage between stops.

Booking the flights

Fly open-jaw

The single most useful decision for a multi-country trip is to book an open-jaw ticket, flying into one city and home from another, for example into London and home from Rome. It saves a day of backtracking and often costs little more than a round trip. Search both directions: London in and Rome out, and Rome in and London out, since fares and schedules can differ significantly. Your airline’s multi-city search, or ours, can price these combinations.

Where to start

From North America, London and Paris have the widest choice of nonstop flights, and Rome is well served from major hubs. If you are in Canada, compare fares from Toronto, from Montreal and from Vancouver; our international flight booking tips explain how to compare connections and baggage rules. For the short hops within Europe, check what is included, because the cheapest fares often exclude carry-on bags larger than a small personal item.

Entry rules: the UK and the Schengen area are separate

This is the part of the trip most likely to catch travelers out, because England and the other two countries follow different systems. Rules change, so treat this as a guide to the principles and confirm on the official pages before you book and again before you fly.

The United Kingdom requires an electronic travel authorization (ETA) for most visitors who do not need a visa, including travelers from Canada, the United States and most of Europe. Every traveler needs their own, including babies and children, and you may need one even if you are only passing through a UK airport and going through border control. Apply only through the UK government’s official ETA page, since look-alike websites charge extra fees. An ETA does not guarantee entry.
France and Italy are in the Schengen area, which has common rules for short stays. Visa-exempt visitors can generally stay up to 90 days in any 180-day period across all Schengen countries combined, and time in the UK does not count toward that limit because the UK is outside the Schengen area.
The EU is introducing new digital border systems. The Entry/Exit System registers non-EU travelers’ details at the external border, and a separate travel authorization for visa-exempt visitors, known as ETIAS, is scheduled to follow. Check the EU’s official ETIAS and EES site for the current status before you travel.
Check your passport’s validity. Schengen countries require a passport that remains valid for a period beyond your planned departure; the official pages set out the exact rule for your nationality.
Read your government’s travel advice. Canadians can check the Government of Canada’s advice for the United Kingdom and the matching pages for France and Italy.

Money, customs and practical details

Two currencies: England uses the pound, France and Italy use the euro. Use a card without foreign transaction fees, and always choose to pay in the local currency when a card terminal offers to convert.
Contactless everywhere: London’s transport and most shops accept contactless cards and phones. Paris and Rome are increasingly card-friendly, but carry some euros for small cafés, markets and tips.
Tipping: service is often included or modest in all three; check the bill for a service charge, and treat rounding up as a courtesy rather than an obligation.
Tourist taxes: Paris, Rome and many other cities add a per-person, per-night tax to hotel bills, sometimes collected at check-in. Include it when you compare rooms.
Plugs: the UK uses a different plug from France and Italy, so pack a multi-country adapter.
Pickpockets: busy metro lines and crowded landmarks in all three capitals attract pickpockets. Keep phones and wallets zipped away; a money belt or an anti-theft backpack helps.

Where to stay

With a few nights in each city, location beats everything. Stay near a metro or Underground station on a line that serves your sights: Bloomsbury, the South Bank or King’s Cross (next to the Eurostar terminal) in London; the Marais, the Latin Quarter or Saint-Germain in Paris; the historic center, Trastevere or the area near Termini station in Rome. Compare total prices including taxes and check cancellation terms; our hotel booking tips go through it step by step.

Car or no car?

In London, Paris and Rome a car is a liability: congestion charges, camera-enforced traffic zones, costly parking and excellent transit all point the same way. Rent only for countryside stretches such as the Cotswolds, Provence or Tuscany, pick up at a station or airport on the edge of town, and check the rules and fees for one-way or cross-border rentals first. Our comparison of renting a car, public transport and taxis and our rental car booking tips cover the rest. Remember that Britain drives on the left.

What to expect season by season

Spring (April to June) is one of the best times for all three: long days, gardens in bloom and crowds that build toward summer, though Easter is very busy in Rome. Summer brings the biggest crowds and real heat in Paris and Rome, and some small Parisian businesses close in August. Fall is warm in Italy and the south of France in September, full of harvest food in October, and quiet and cheaper in November; our guide to the best places to visit in Europe in fall covers the season in detail. Winter, outside the Christmas and New Year holidays, has the lowest crowds and rates; days are short and damp, but museums, theater and December’s Christmas markets carry the trip. For a festive break closer to home, see our guide to the best cities for Christmas in the USA.

Packing and preparation

The three countries have different weather and customs, so pack layers rather than bulk: a light waterproof jacket for London, a smarter outfit for dinners in Paris, and a cover-up for churches in Rome. Comfortable walking shoes matter most, and a bag light enough to carry up station stairs saves a lot of grief; our guide to travel luggage helps. Save your passport details, ETA approval, insurance, bookings and train tickets offline on your phone.

The Colosseum and the ruins of the Roman Forum in Rome — The Colosseum and Roman Forum: reserve timed entry well ahead in spring and summer (Photo: Wilfredor via Wikimedia Commons, CC0)

Common mistakes to avoid

Too many bases. Every hotel change costs half a day. One base per country is plenty on a ten-day trip.
Booking a round trip. Returning to your arrival city wastes time and money; book open-jaw.
Forgetting the UK ETA. Travelers who have been to France or Italy before are often surprised that Britain needs a separate authorization.
Not reserving major sights. The Colosseum, the Vatican Museums, the Louvre, the Eiffel Tower and the Last Supper in Milan all sell timed tickets that can run out in busy months.
Driving into historic centers. Italian limited traffic zones in particular are camera-enforced, and fines can arrive months later.
Arriving at the airport late. European airports can be crowded in summer; our guide to airport arrival times for international flights explains how much time to allow.

Frequently asked questions

Is ten days enough for England, France and Italy?

It is enough to see the highlights of London, Paris and Rome with three nights in each, but not much else. If you want countryside, day trips or a second Italian city, allow two weeks or drop one country.

Which country should I visit if I can only choose one?

Choose England for an easy first trip, museums and theater; France for art, food and variety; Italy for history, food and scenery. If you are still undecided, look at which city you most want to see and build around that country.

What is the best order to visit them?

London, then Paris, then Rome is the most efficient, because the Eurostar links the first two and a flight covers the long leg to Rome. You can reverse it just as easily. Choose the order that gives you the cheapest open-jaw flight.

Do I need a visa for England, France and Italy?

Canadian and US citizens do not need a visa for short tourist stays in these countries, but most visitors do need a UK electronic travel authorization before flying to Britain, and the EU is introducing its own digital entry systems. Check the official UK and EU pages for your nationality before you book.

Is it better to take the train or fly within Europe?

Take the train when the journey is under about four or five hours, since stations are central and there is less security hassle. Fly longer legs such as Paris to Rome or London to Rome.

When is the cheapest time to visit all three?

Late fall and winter, outside the holidays, usually bring the lowest hotel rates and fares. Late spring and early fall offer a better balance of price, weather and crowds.

Ready to plan your trip? Compare open-jaw fares into London, Paris and Rome on our flight search, then line up rooms on our hotel search. For more ways to make a big trip affordable, start with our guide to budget travel destinations.

Keep planning with TicketScanner

Budget travel destinations: the best-value picks
How to travel Europe on a multi-city itinerary
Best places to visit in Europe in fall
How to save money for a trip
Plan a honeymoon in the Cayman Islands
Best cities for Christmas in the USA
Compare flights to Europe — price open-jaw trips into London and home from Rome
Cheap flights to Paris
Things to do in London
Things to do in Rome

September 27, 2023